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The System: Who Rigged It, How We Fix It

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The System by Robert B. Reich delves into the analysis of how the political and economic systems in America have been distorted by power dynamics, leading to a concentration of wealth and power in the hands of a few at the top. Reich highlights the shift towards shareholder capitalism, the decline of union bargaining power, and the financial influence of Wall Street as key factors contributing to the rigging of the system. Through a compelling narrative, Reich addresses the impact of consumerism, the lack of concrete proposals for change, and the battle between democracy and oligarchy, emphasizing the need for systemic reform to restore balance and prioritize the common good over individual gain.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is clear, engaging, and often humorous, making complex subjects accessible.

Plot/Storyline:

The content explores systemic problems leading to wealth inequality, providing historical context and critique of power dynamics.

Setting:

The setting is contemporary America, highlighting its economic and political landscape.

Pacing:

The pacing is moderate, integrating thorough analysis with personal narrative.

Notes:

The average American may not fully understand terms like 'rigged' or 'oligarchy'.
Robert Reich's book provides a clear understanding of systemic issues affecting society.
He criticizes the way the system favors the rich and powerful.
Reich identifies three major changes over decades that shifted power upward: corporate governance changes, a decline in union power, and Wall Street's financial influence.
Most Americans cope with these systemic issues by working longer hours, borrowing more, and relying on dual incomes.
The book is partly addressed to Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, highlighting his role in the system's dynamics.
Reich has extensive experience in government and academia, having served as Secretary of Labor under Bill Clinton and currently teaches at UC Berkeley.
While some wealthy individuals advocate for social policies, they are seen as part of the problem according to Reich.
Reich argues against viewing the crisis as a simple left vs. right issue, instead framing it as a democratic vs. oligarchic struggle.
Consumerism, fueled by easy credit, is seen as a major issue harming the middle class, according to Reich.
The Systems shows how both capitalist and communist systems can be manipulated for personal gain by those in power.
Many readers find the book both enlightening and infuriating, emphasizing the urgency of addressing inequality.

From The Publisher:

From the bestselling author of Saving Capitalism and The Common Good, comes an urgent analysis of how the "rigged" systems of American politics and power operate, how this status quo came to be, and how average citizens can enact change.

There is a mounting sense that our political-economic system is no longer working, but what is the core problem and how do we remedy it? With the characteristic clarity and passion that have made him a central civil voice, bestselling author of Saving Capitalism and The Common Good Robert B. Reich shows how wealth and power have combined to install an oligarchy and undermine democracy. Reich exposes the myths of meritocracy, national competitiveness, corporate social responsibility, the "free market," and the political "center," all of which are used by those at the top to divert attention from their takeover of the system and to justify their accumulation of even more wealth and power. In demystifying the current system, Reich reveals where power actually lies and how it is wielded, and invites us to reclaim power and remake the system for all.

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About the Author:

ROBERT B. REICH is Chancellor's Professor of Public Policy at the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California, Berkeley. He has served in three national administrations and has written fifteen books, including The Work of Nations, which has…

 
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