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Summaries of books by David Graeber:

The Dawn of Everything

A New History of Humanity
David Graeber
The book reexamines the history of human societies, challenging conventional narratives about social evolution and the rise of civilization by presenting new research and perspectives on the diverse forms of social organization. It explores themes of autonomy, freedom, and the potential for organizing societies differently, drawing on a wide range of historical and anthropological case studies.
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Bullshit Jobs

A Theory
David Graeber
The book argues that a significant portion of modern work is meaningless, contributing little to society, and that these jobs exist for the sake of maintaining economic and political systems. It explores the psychological and social harm caused by such jobs and suggests that this trend undermines human potential and happiness.
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Debt

The First 5,000 Years,Updated and Expanded
David Graeber
The book explores the history and anthropology of debt over millennia, challenging the conventional economic narrative that currency evolved from barter, and instead positing that debt and credit systems were foundational to human economies. It delves into the moral implications of debt, the social relationships it engenders, and its role in historical events and societal transformations.
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The Utopia of Rules

On Technology, Stupidity, and the Secret Joys of Bureaucracy
David Graeber
The book critically examines the pervasive nature of bureaucracy in modern life, arguing that what was once a method for managing large organizations has become a default strategy for social control, stifling creativity and reinforcing hierarchical structures. It explores the relationship between bureaucracy and technology, the psychology behind society's tacit acceptance of bureaucratic routines, and the subtle ways in which these systems shape human behavior and the pursuit of happiness.
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