Summaries of books about Politics & Social Sciences:
Cynical Theories
How Activist Scholarship Made Everything about Race, Gender, and Identity—and Why This Harms Everybody
Helen Pluckrose|James A. Lindsay
The book critiques the evolution of postmodern thought into what the authors term "applied postmodernism," particularly within academic fields related to identity such as critical race theory and gender studies. It argues that this shift towards a focus on language, power, and social constructs has led to an increase in identity-based politics and division, which the authors believe undermines objective truth and liberal democratic values.
See full summary
The Parasitic Mind
How Infectious Ideas Are Killing Common Sense
Gad Saad
The book explores the concept of idea pathogens—destructive thought patterns and intellectual movements that undermine logic, science, and reason. It critiques contemporary cultural trends and academic theories, arguing that they erode the foundations of critical thinking and threaten the well-being of society.
See full summary
Why don't you just leave him?
A Domestic violence true story.
STACEY JAMESON
The book recounts the harrowing personal experience of a woman enduring and ultimately escaping an abusive relationship. It delves into the psychological manipulation and physical danger she faced, as well as her journey towards recovery and empowerment.
See full summary
The War on the West
How to Prevail in the Age of Unreason
Douglas Murray
The book critiques what the author perceives as an attack on Western values and institutions, arguing that self-criticism and guilt have gone too far in undermining the foundations of Western civilization. It discusses topics such as identity politics, cancel culture, and the impact of these phenomena on free speech, historical interpretation, and societal cohesion.
See full summary
Russian Roulette
The Inside Story of Putin's War on America and the Election of Donald Trump
Michael Isikoff|David Corn
The book delves into the complex web of activities and strategies employed by the Russian government to influence the 2016 U.S. presidential election, including cyber attacks and disinformation campaigns. It also investigates the connections and interactions between Russian operatives and associates of Donald Trump, exploring how these relationships may have impacted the election outcome.
See full summary
Commander in Cheat
How Golf Explains Trump
Rick Reilly
The book delves into Donald Trump's behavior on the golf course, presenting anecdotes and testimonies that illustrate his tendency to bend the rules and exhibit unsportsmanlike conduct. It uses these stories as a metaphor to discuss his character and approach to leadership and business.
See full summary
The Liberty Amendments
Restoring the American Republic
Mark R. Levin
The book proposes a series of constitutional amendments aimed at reining in the power of the federal government and restoring the principles of federalism and checks and balances. It discusses the author's belief in the necessity of returning to the framers' original vision of the Constitution to ensure liberty and reduce governmental overreach.
See full summary
The Threat
How the FBI Protects America in the Age of Terror and Trump
Andrew G. McCabe
The book provides an insider's perspective on the FBI's operations and challenges during pivotal moments in recent American history, including terrorism and the 2016 election. It also details the author's personal experiences and interactions with President Donald Trump, leading up to his dismissal from the FBI.
See full summary
Prisoners of Geography
Ten Maps That Explain Everything About the World
Tim Marshall
The book explores how geography has shaped the political decisions and international relations of countries around the world. It uses ten maps to illustrate the strategic advantages and limitations that natural landscapes impose on nations, influencing their historical and contemporary choices.
See full summary
Men Explain Things to Me
Rebecca Solnit
The book is a collection of essays that delve into various aspects of feminist discourse, particularly focusing on the phenomenon where men condescendingly explain things to women regardless of the women's knowledge on the subject. It also explores themes of gender inequality, violence against women, and the silencing of women's voices in societal and cultural contexts.
See full summary