Summaries of books about Politics & Social Sciences:
The Despot's Accomplice
How the West is Aiding and Abetting the Decline of Democracy
Brian Klaas
The book examines how democratic nations inadvertently contribute to the rise of authoritarian regimes by prioritizing short-term strategic interests over long-term democratic principles. It critiques Western policies and proposes solutions for how democracies can more effectively promote freedom and counteract autocratic trends globally.
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The One Percent Solution
How Corporations Are Remaking America One State at a Time
Gordon Lafer
The book examines the influence of major corporations on American politics and policy at the state level, detailing how these entities leverage their power to shape legislation in their favor. It explores the impact of corporate lobbying and campaign finance on issues such as labor laws, education, and the social safety net, arguing that these efforts undermine democratic processes and exacerbate inequality.
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False Dawn
Protest, Democracy, and Violence in the New Middle East
Steven A. Cook
The book analyzes the causes and consequences of the Arab Spring, arguing that the uprisings failed to bring about true democratic change and instead led to increased authoritarianism and instability. It examines the role of external powers, the resurgence of authoritarian leaders, and the rise of sectarianism and violence across the Middle East.
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The Cost Disease
Why Computers Get Cheaper and Health Care Doesn't
William J. Baumol|Monte Malach|Ariel Pablos-Mendez|Lillian Gomory Wu
The book explores the economic phenomenon where services like healthcare and education become increasingly expensive relative to goods like electronics, attributing this to differing productivity growth rates across sectors. It argues that sectors with slower productivity growth, often those requiring personal interaction, face rising costs as they compete for labor with more productive industries, leading to what is termed the "cost disease."
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Irony and Outrage
The Polarized Landscape of Rage, Fear, and Laughter in the United States
Dannagal Goldthwaite Young
The book examines the distinct media strategies of the American liberal and conservative political spheres, analyzing how the left tends to favor irony and satire in outlets like late-night comedy, while the right mobilizes outrage and fear through opinionated talk radio and cable news. It explores the psychological underpinnings and historical development of these approaches, and their impact on political polarization and discourse.
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The Fight for Free Speech
Ten Cases That Define Our First Amendment Freedoms
Ian Rosenberg
The book examines ten landmark First Amendment cases in the United States, exploring the historical context, legal arguments, and implications for free speech. It provides insights into how the Supreme Court has interpreted and shaped the rights to free expression, press, assembly, and religion over time.
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The Next Hundred Million
America in 2050
Joel Kotkin
The book explores demographic trends and projections for the United States, predicting significant population growth to 400 million people by 2050. It discusses the implications of this growth for suburban expansion, the economy, and cultural diversity, painting an optimistic picture of America's future.
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Corporations Are Not People
Reclaiming Democracy from Big Money and Global Corporations
Jeffrey D. Clements
The book critiques the influence of large corporations on American democracy, particularly in the wake of the Supreme Court's Citizens United decision, which granted corporations the same free speech rights as individuals. It argues for a grassroots movement to amend the Constitution and restore democratic power to the people, away from the disproportionate sway of corporate and big money interests.
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Japan Rearmed
The Politics of Military Power
Sheila A. Smith
The book examines Japan's evolving defense strategy and military capabilities in the face of regional threats and global security challenges. It explores the domestic and international political factors influencing Japan's shift away from its post-World War II pacifism towards a more proactive security posture.
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Rippling
How Social Entrepreneurs Spread Innovation Throughout the World
Beverly Schwartz
The book presents a collection of stories and strategies from social entrepreneurs who have successfully implemented innovative solutions to address various social issues globally. It outlines five strategic models that these change-makers use to create widespread impact, demonstrating how ideas can be scaled to effect systemic change across communities and societies.
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