The System: The Misgovernment of Modern Britain, London (Hodder & Stoughton) 1967.

Nicholson's book was a hard-hitting critique of government and public administration. He advocated some radical remedies including a complete reform of the Civil Service and the abolition of the Treasury. The book, which was generally well-received, stimulated much debate in the press. Nicholson himself received considerable publicity and wrote a number of follow-up articles in response to the debate.

The book was published in the USA by McGraw Hill Book Co.