Books matching: critique of neoliberalism
21 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
'Bad Samaritans: The Myth of Free Trade and the Secret History of Capitalism' by Ha-Joon Chang presents a compelling argument against minimalist, laissez-faire state policies advocated by neoliberals, especially in developing countries. Chang advocates for a judicious mix of market and government intervention, emphasizing the importance of nationalization and state subsidies in defending budding industries in developing nations. delves into the consequences of free trade, protectionism, and the role of corrupt governments in speeding up bureaucratic systems in poor countries.
1 The Korean income figure is from H.-C. Lee (1999), Hankook Gyongje Tongsa [Economic History of Korea] (Bup-Moon Sa, Seoul) [in Korean], Appendix Table 1. The Ghanaian figure is from C. Kindleberger ... - #2
'In Praise of Love' by Alain Badiou delves into the philosophical exploration of love, presenting a unique perspective on the complex emotion. Badiou discusses love as a value that develops from significant encounters, emphasizing the adventurous and stubborn nature of love. He challenges conventional notions of love, discussing its defense and reinvention as a philosophical task. The book also touches on the impact of neoliberalism on love affairs and the importance of love in experiencing the world differently.
In The Meaning of Sarkozy, a book that has subsequently become famous, you argue that “we must re-invent love but also quite simply defend it, because it faces threats from all sides”. In what ways is... 'Profit Over People: Neoliberalism & Global Order' by Noam Chomsky is a critical examination of the impact of neoliberal policies on democracy, globalization, and the world order. The book delves into the influence of private corporations, the role of mainstream media in reinforcing economic, cultural, and political systems, and the manipulation of public opinion to serve the interests of a wealthy elite. Chomsky's writing style is described as informative and reader-friendly, with short bursts of sense that provoke readers to question the state of democracy and the power dynamics at play in society.
Neoliberalism is the defining political economic paradigm of our time—it refers to the policies and processes whereby a relative handful of private interests are permitted to control as much as possib...- #4
'Planet of Slums' by Mike Davis is a grim portrayal of urban poverty and slum living conditions in developing countries. Davis criticizes governments, neoliberal policies, and international institutions for failing to address the issues of overcrowded housing, lack of basic amenities, and exploitation of the urban poor. The book presents a detailed analysis of the growth of slums, the failure of economic development to accompany urbanization, and the dire living conditions faced by slum dwellers.
Davis's writing style is described as relentless, nihilistic, and filled with facts and figures that paint a vivid picture of the misery and degradation in slums. The book offers a sobering reminder that economic growth does not automatically translate into improved living conditions for the poor, and it highlights the urgent need for solutions to address the challenges faced by the burgeoning urban poor populations.
The most celebrated phenomenon, of course, is the burgeoning of new megacities with populations in excess of 8 million and, even more spectacularly, hypercities with more than 20 million inhabitants –... - #5
A Brief History of Neoliberalism by David Harvey is a detailed exploration of the rise and impact of neoliberal policies, tracing its theoretical beginnings in the 1950s and 60s and its emergence in response to the fallout of the Great Depression in the 1930s. The book delves into the historical context of neoliberalism, examining how it became a powerful influence on economic and political life, highlighting its consequences and theoretical faults. Harvey argues for a return to the embedded liberalism of the post-1945 era and raises important questions about freedom, democracy, and social equality.
How was neoliberalization accomplished, and by whom? The answer in countries such as Chile and Argentina in the 1970s was as simple as it was swift, brutal, and sure: a military coup backed by the tra... - #6Ovalby:
In an alternate near future Berlin, Anja and Louis, a young couple, live in a malfunctioning eco house while being part of a world controlled by corporations. Anja works as a scientist until being promoted into a consultant role, while Louis works on developing a new drug that has some repercussions. The novel delves into a dystopic vision of leftism taken too far, where efforts to promote equality become mutated into selfish patronization and mindless philanthropy, all set in a near future Berlin rife with issues and a crumbling relationship between the main characters.
AFTER DEATH, BUREAUCRACY TAKES THE WHEEL. FUNERAL arrangements, bank account closures, insurance payouts. Unpaid taxes. Unforgiven debts. For some, the cascade of paperwork adds an unbearable layer of... - #7
'Pacific Edge' by Kim Stanley Robinson is a utopian novel set in a future California where ecological awareness is deeply ingrained in everyday life. The story revolves around a small town reshaped by an anti-corporatist revolution, where residents lead pastoral lives focusing on artisanal occupations and municipal volunteer labor. Despite the idyllic setting, there are underlying tensions as multinational corporate forces threaten the peaceful coexistence of the community. Through multiple protagonists, the author explores themes of sustainable technology, political activism, and societal change, offering a prescient view of a future world shaped by environmental concerns and global consciousness.
The narrative of 'Pacific Edge' is characterized by detailed town planning discussions, internal dialogues of characters, and a reflective tone on the potential future of California. Kim Stanley Robinson weaves together a story that is both optimistic and thought-provoking, presenting a cooperative utopia while also acknowledging the challenges and conflicts that arise in a society striving for sustainability and social harmony.
The air was cool, and smelled of sage. It had the clarity that comes to southern California only after a Santa Ana wind has blown all haze and history out to sea—air like telescopic glass, so that the...
(Also, see 26 recommendations for the series Three Californias Triptych ) - #8
Dream London by Tony Ballantyne is a surreal urban fantasy novel that takes place in a dreamworld version of London where reality is constantly shifting and regressing to Victorian times. The story follows Captain James Wedderburn as he navigates through a city filled with bizarre transformations, mysterious characters, and hidden agendas. The writing style is described as imaginative, humorous, and thought-provoking, blending elements of fantasy, satire, and social commentary seamlessly.
My mobile had stopped working months ago; I hadn’t bothered getting a clock. The threadbare curtains were lit by the yellow gas glow of the street lamps. I held my breath and listened for the knocking... 'Beauty and Misogyny: Harmful Cultural Practices in the West' by Sheila Jeffreys is a powerful feminist critique that delves into the harmful impact of western beauty practices on women. Jeffreys argues that these practices perpetuate the subordination of women in society, enforced by male oppressors and capitalist systems. The book explores various beauty norms and their origins in prostitution, highlighting the physical and psychological harm inflicted upon women. Jeffreys calls for a reevaluation of beauty standards and advocates for resistance against harmful practices through political action.
'Consequences of Capitalism: Manufacturing Discontent and Resistance' by Noam Chomsky delves into the impact of capitalism on various aspects of society. Through a critical analysis, Chomsky explores the role of advertising and PR in fueling consumption by manufacturing fear and fabricating demand, as seen in historical events like the fear of communism in the 1980s and the ongoing war on terror post-9/11. also discusses the consequences of capitalism on workers' rights, global capital flow, and the erosion of civil society, prompting readers to question the predominant neoliberal economic paradigm and consider the role of government and civil society in shaping a more equitable society.
Chomsky's writing style is praised for its ability to simplify complex ideas without being overly pedantic, making it accessible to a wide range of readers. By providing rich historical context and encouraging critical thinking, the book aims to increase awareness of the underlying mechanisms of capitalism and stimulate discussions on pressing socio-political issues such as income inequality, corporate influence, and the erosion of democratic values.
How do we know what we think we know about the world? How do we navigate through our day-to-day lives, and how do we negotiate novel situations? In this first chapter, we are interested in taking up q...