Books matching: power dynamics critique
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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.
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Save:'The Portable Nietzsche' by Friedrich Nietzsche is a collection of his most important texts, including 'Thus Spoke Zarathustra', 'Twilight of the Idols', 'The Antichrist', and 'Nietzsche Contra Wagner'. presents Nietzsche's vision on life, man, woman, good and evil, freedom, natural laws, and institutions like the State and Church in a manic and delirious style. It contains letters to his sister and intellectual friends, notes, drafts, and excerpts from various other works, showcasing Nietzsche's profound and sometimes disturbing viewpoints on freedom and human nature.
Nietzsche's writing style is described as polemic, aggressive, and arrogant, yet also foaming and aggressive, reflecting his battle for the freedom of man against those who seek to oppress him. includes aphorisms, maxims, metaphors, and poems, offering a unique insight into Nietzsche's philosophy and his critique of Christianity, equality, rationality, and the modern world.
1870 Promoted to full professor. A Swiss subject now, he volunteers as a medical orderly in the Franco-Prussian war and serves briefly with the Prussian forces. Returns to Basel in October, his health... 'The Sadeian Woman: And the Ideology of Pornography' by Angela Carter delves into the complex themes of power, sexuality, and gender through an analysis of the Marquis de Sade's works. Angela Carter presents a feminist reading of Sade, exploring the relationship between sexuality and power, and how it is constructed within society. She discusses the cultural determinants of women's roles and their interactions with men, shedding light on the divisive nature of gender relations. Carter's writing style is insightful and thought-provoking, offering a reinterpretation of Sade's controversial views and providing a feminist perspective on his works.
Sadism is not a name finally given to a practice as old as Eros; it is a massive cultural fact which appeared precisely at the end of the eighteenth century, and which constitutes one of the greatest ...- #4
Save:'Shooting an Elephant' by George Orwell is a collection of essays that delve into various themes such as imperialism, colonialism, war, injustice, and racism. Through his storytelling style, Orwell provides a profound exploration of these complex topics. The book includes essays like 'Shooting an Elephant,' 'A Hanging,' 'Marrakech,' and 'The Clink,' which are considered classics and are highly recommended for their depth and commentary on societal issues.
From a very early age, perhaps the age of five or six, I knew that when I grew up I should be a writer. Between the ages of about seventeen and twenty-four I tried to abandon this idea, but I did so w... - #5
Save:Thus Spoke Zarathustra by Friedrich Nietzsche is a philosophical work that follows the fictional philosopher Zarathustra as he shares his wisdom with humanity. The book explores themes such as the death of God, the concept of the Superman, and eternal recurrence. Nietzsche's writing style in this book is described as poetic, mythic, and aphoristic, making it a challenging yet thought-provoking read for those interested in a more literary approach to philosophy.
WHEN Zarathustra was thirty years old, he left his home and the lake of his home and went into the mountains. Here he had the enjoyment of his spirit and his solitude and he did not weary of it for te... - #6
Save:The Iron Dream by Norman Spinrad is a controversial and groundbreaking alternate history science fiction work where Adolf Hitler emigrates to the United States and becomes a celebrated science fiction writer. The novel within the book, 'Lords of the Swastika', presents a story of a post-nuclear society divided between Truemen and mutants, with the protagonist aiming to ensure the purity of the human race by exterminating mutants. Spinrad cleverly uses this premise to satirize early science fiction writer's ideas and critique the use of fascist imagery in the genre.
The book is known for its audacious and challenging concept, portraying an alternate universe where Hitler becomes a science fiction writer, and his novel wins a posthumous Hugo Award. Through the lens of this fictional work by Hitler, Spinrad explores themes of hypermasculinism, fetishism, and fascism, while also providing a critical analysis that sheds light on the underlying messages in the story.
With a great groaning of tired metal and a hiss of escaping steam, the roadsteamer from Gormond came to a halt in the grimy yard of the Pormi depot, a mere three hours late; quite a respectable perfor... - #7
Save:The Sadist's Bible by Nicole Cushing is a novella that delves into visceral horror, offering a roller coaster of pure horror that combines elements of pain, pleasure, and depravity. The story follows characters Ellie and Lori as they navigate a world of disturbing hell, madness, and depravity, all while exploring themes of absolute power, coming of age, and subversion of audience expectations. Cushing's writing style is described as gruesome, vivid, and uncomfortably realistic, making the reader feel repulsed yet fascinated by the dark world she creates.
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Save:'Hollywood' by Gore Vidal, part of the 'Narratives of Empire' series, delves into the political shenanigans of Washington, D.C. during the early 20th century, particularly focusing on the period around America's entry into World War I. Despite the misleading cover claiming it to be a novel about Hollywood in the 1920s, the narrative primarily revolves around historical events, intricate political details, and the transformation of America through the emergence of cinema technology. Vidal skillfully weaves together a wide cast of characters, blending real historical figures with fictional ones, to portray the rise of a political and ruling class akin to Ancient Rome or Victorian England, showcasing the power dynamics and ambitions of the time.
The writing style of 'Hollywood' is characterized by detailed historical depictions, strong character development through dialogue, and a focus on the intricacies of how individuals attain and retain power in the political landscape. Despite being a literary fiction novel with minimal action, the book excels in capturing the essence of the era, offering insights into the complexities of American society during a transformative period marked by significant events like the League of Nations, Prohibition, and the influence of Hollywood propaganda on shaping national identity.
SLOWLY, WILLIAM RANDOLPH HEARST lowered his vast bear-like body into a handsome Biedermeier chair, all scrolls and lyres and marquetry. “Tell no one I’m in Washington,” he commanded. Then, slowly, he ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Narratives of Empire ) - #9
Save:'Father of Lies' by Brian B.K. Evenson is a harrowing and disturbing novel that delves into the extreme harm caused by objectification within religious patriarchal structures. The story follows a church official who is a sexual predator, preying on children under the guise of trust and authority. The plot unfolds to reveal the manipulation and psychological imbalance of the protagonist, leading to a brutal climax that keeps readers engrossed till the end.
Evenson's writing style in 'Father of Lies' is described as slow-burn horror, gradually setting the scene before plunging readers into dark and twisted territories. The narrative switches between different perspectives, unlocking psychological profiles and ensnaring readers in the uncertainties of reality. The author's concise and hard-hitting approach provides a clear look at the disturbing actions of the characters, making it a gripping and compelling read.
Near evening the girl passes the house again, this time looking distraught. I watch her walk before the front window, slowly, swaying her slight hips. The salad tongs are motionless and caught in my h... "Men Explain Things to Me: And Other Essays" by Rebecca Solnit is a collection of feminist essays that delve into societal issues such as mansplaining, toxic masculinity, violence against women, and the silencing of women. Solnit's writing style is described as articulate, passionate, and insightful, covering a wide range of topics from Virginia Woolf's writings to the importance of marriage equality. The essays are thought-provoking, eye-opening, and provide a deep exploration of gender inequality and feminist perspectives.
I still don’t know why Sallie and I bothered to go to that party in the forest slope above Aspen. The people were all older than us and dull in a distinguished way, old enough that we, at forty-ish, p...
