Citing Marx's socioeconomic base/social superstructure metaphor, Norman Markel proposes that "conversation style" is a social superstructure that reproduces and reinforces a socioeconomic base. Specifically, a conversation style that is High Hierarchy and Low Solidarity mirrors the capitalist socioeconomic base and contributes to an unconscious acceptance of the idea that autocratic and alienated interpersonal relationships are human nature.

This book describes the research establishing Address, Self-disclosure, Seating, Eye-Contact and Touch as the most significant behaviors communicating Hierarchy and Solidarity. The author suggests that being conscious of the meaning of these five behaviors, we are free to choose an alternate conversation style - Low Hierarchy and High Solidarity - that provides a foundation for democratic and compassionate interpersonal relationships.