Summaries of books about Politics & Social Sciences:
How Population Change Will Transform Our World
Sarah Harper
The book examines the demographic trends shaping the 21st century, including aging populations, declining fertility rates, and urbanization, and discusses the potential social, economic, and political impacts of these changes on a global scale. It explores policy implications and the need for adaptation in areas such as healthcare, employment, and intergenerational relations to address the challenges and opportunities of shifting demographics.
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The Great Society at Fifty
The Triumph and the Tragedy
Nicholas Eberstadt
The book critically examines the outcomes and impacts of Lyndon B. Johnson's Great Society programs after five decades, assessing the successes in reducing poverty and inequality as well as the unintended consequences and failures. It provides an analysis of the social and economic policies, their long-term effects on American society, and the challenges that remain in addressing poverty and social justice.
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Counter-Revolution
Liberal Europe in Retreat
Jan Zielonka
The book critically examines the decline of the liberal democratic model in Europe, arguing that the rise of populist movements and authoritarian leaders is a response to the failures of the liberal establishment. It explores the challenges faced by the European Union, including economic inequality, migration crises, and the erosion of the rule of law, proposing a rethinking of Europe's political structures and policies to address these issues.
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Unholy Wars
Afghanistan, America and International Terrorism
John Cooley|John K. Cooley
The book delves into the complex history of Afghanistan, the rise of the Taliban, and the involvement of the United States and other foreign powers in the region, highlighting the unintended consequences of supporting Islamic militants during the Cold War. It examines the roots and evolution of modern international terrorism, including the development of Al-Qaeda, and critiques the strategic decisions that led to the protracted conflict and instability in the region.
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America Alone
The Neo-Conservatives and the Global Order
Stefan Halper|Jonathan Clarke
The book critically examines the rise of neo-conservatism in American foreign policy, particularly during the George W. Bush administration, and its impact on international relations. It discusses the ideological underpinnings of neo-conservative thought, the influence on the decision to invade Iraq, and the broader implications for the global order.
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Governing by Network
The New Shape of the Public Sector
William D. Eggers, Stephen Goldsmith
The book examines the shift in public sector management towards a model that emphasizes collaboration with private and nonprofit sectors through networks, rather than traditional bureaucratic hierarchies. It explores the implications of this change for government effectiveness, accountability, and the role of public employees in delivering services.
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Modern Slavery
A Beginner's Guide
Kevin Bales|Zoe Trodd|Alex Kent Williamson
The book provides an overview of contemporary forms of slavery around the world, examining its causes, manifestations, and the challenges in eradicating it. It also discusses the economic and political factors that sustain slavery today, as well as the efforts of activists and organizations to combat this human rights issue.
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Taxing the Rich
A History of Fiscal Fairness in the United States and Europe
Kenneth Scheve|David Stasavage
The book examines the history and rationale behind taxing the wealthy in the United States and Europe, exploring how wars and economic crises have influenced tax policies and public opinion on fiscal fairness. It delves into the evolution of progressive taxation, analyzing the conditions under which societies have adopted higher taxes on the rich to address inequality and finance public goods.
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Talking Prices
Symbolic Meanings of Prices on the Market for Contemporary Art
Olav Velthuis
The book delves into the complex dynamics of pricing in the contemporary art market, examining how economic and social factors intertwine to determine the value of art. It explores the symbolic and communicative aspects of pricing, revealing how artists, dealers, and collectors use prices as a language to convey prestige, reputation, and taste within the art world.
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Project Censored's State of the Free Press 2022
Andy Lee Roth, Mickey Huff
The book compiles the most under-reported news stories of the previous year, highlighting significant issues that have been overlooked by mainstream media. It also critiques the state of journalism and the impact of corporate and political interests on the dissemination of information to the public.
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