This work investigates the fundamental question of what constitutes the Australian national identity through the lens of its diverse social and historical evolution. Donald Horne, a prominent Australian intellectual and social critic, utilizes a broad historical framework to examine the interplay between the nation's colonial origins and its mid-20th-century social realities. By synthesizing historical data with sociological observation, the author constructs a narrative that challenges traditional myths about Australian character and development.

This text is regarded as a foundational piece of Australian social history that prioritizes critical analysis over celebratory national narratives. The scope suggests a dense, academic approach intended for readers seeking a sophisticated understanding of the socio-political forces that shaped the modern Australian state.