Summaries of books about Politics & Social Sciences:
Among the Thugs
Bill Buford
The book is a non-fiction exploration of the violent world of soccer hooliganism in England during the 1980s. The author, an American journalist, immerses himself in the lives of hardcore fans, experiencing and documenting the intense tribalism and chaos that characterize their brutal clashes, both in the streets and at football matches.
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Playing with Fire
The 1968 Election and the Transformation of American Politics
Lawrence O'Donnell
The book delves into the tumultuous events of the 1968 U.S. presidential election, exploring how the political and social upheavals of the time, including the Vietnam War and civil rights movements, led to a profound shift in American politics. It examines the roles of key figures like Lyndon B. Johnson, Robert Kennedy, Richard Nixon, and George Wallace, and how their strategies and the election's outcome set the stage for future political landscapes.
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The Rise and Fall of Nations
Forces of Change in the Post-Crisis World
Ruchir Sharma
The book examines ten factors, such as demographics, politics, and geography, that can predict a nation's future economic success or decline in the post-2008 financial crisis world. It provides a framework for identifying countries with the potential for growth and those at risk of stagnation, using a blend of economic analysis, personal anecdotes, and on-the-ground reporting.
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Deer Hunting with Jesus
Dispatches from America's Class War
Joe Bageant
The book provides a series of essays that delve into the lives of the working-class in rural America, highlighting their struggles, political views, and the impact of economic inequality. It offers a candid and often humorous critique of the American class system, exposing the cultural and political divide between the poor white working class and the liberal elite.
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Happy City
Transforming Our Lives Through Urban Design
Charles Montgomery
The book examines how urban design influences the happiness and well-being of city residents, advocating for environments that promote social interaction and accessibility. It presents research and case studies that demonstrate the psychological and social impacts of city planning, suggesting practical ways to create more livable and joyful urban spaces.
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Disorder in the Court
Great Fractured Moments in Courtroom History
Charles M. Sevilla
The book is a collection of humorous and bizarre anecdotes from real-life courtroom proceedings, showcasing the often-unexpected and chaotic exchanges between judges, attorneys, defendants, and witnesses. It compiles various misstatements, witty comebacks, and accidental innuendos that have occurred during legal trials, reflecting the lighter side of the legal system.
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Straight Jacket
Overcoming Society's Legacy of Gay Shame
Matthew Todd
The book examines the various ways in which the LGBTQ+ community, particularly gay men, have been affected by homophobia, internalized shame, and societal pressures. It explores personal stories, psychological insights, and the impact of these factors on mental health, offering pathways to healing and self-acceptance.
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The Truths We Hold
An American Journey
Kamala Harris
The book presents the life story of Kamala Harris, detailing her journey from her childhood as the daughter of immigrants to her career in public service and rise in American politics. It aims to inspire young readers by sharing her experiences, the values she holds dear, and the significant moments that have shaped her commitment to justice and civil rights.
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Janesville
An American Story
Amy Goldstein
The book chronicles the impact of the 2008 closure of a General Motors assembly plant on the residents of Janesville, Wisconsin, detailing the economic and social challenges they face. It explores the efforts of the community to adapt and recover, highlighting the resilience and struggles of individuals as they cope with job loss and the changing American economy.
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The Way of the Knife
The CIA, a Secret Army, and a War at the Ends of the Earth
Mark Mazzetti
The book delves into the transformation of the CIA and American special operations forces into manhunting and killing machines in the post-9/11 era, focusing on covert operations and drone warfare in places like Pakistan, Yemen, and Somalia. It examines the blurring lines between soldiers and spies, and the ethical, political, and strategic implications of this new way of waging war.
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