Summaries of books about Politics & Social Sciences:
The Mushroom at the End of the World
On the Possibility of Life in Capitalist Ruins
Anna Lowenhaupt Tsing
The book explores the complex ecology and economy surrounding the Matsutake mushroom, a highly valued species that thrives in human-disturbed forests. It uses the mushroom as a lens to examine the interconnectedness of biological diversity and cultural diversity, revealing how life persists in the fragmented landscapes left by global capitalism.
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Glass House
The 1% Economy and the Shattering of the All-American Town
Brian Alexander
The book chronicles the decline of Lancaster, Ohio, once a thriving middle-class community, detailing how financialization, deindustrialization, and corporate greed have led to economic and social devastation. It provides a case study of the broader erosion of small-town America, exploring the impact on the town's residents and the fading of the American Dream.
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Mission Economy
A Moonshot Guide to Changing Capitalism
Mariana Mazzucato
The book argues for a bold rethinking of public policy and innovation, inspired by the Apollo moon missions, to direct the power of government and business toward public goals and solving societal challenges. It advocates for a collaborative approach where state entities set ambitious objectives and invest in innovation to drive sustainable economic growth and address issues like climate change and inequality.
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All the Kremlin's Men
Inside the Court of Vladimir Putin
Mikhail Zygar
The book provides an in-depth look at the inner workings of Vladimir Putin's presidency, revealing the complex power dynamics and relationships within his circle of advisors, oligarchs, and political elites. It offers a chronological narrative of Putin's rule from 2000 to 2015, based on interviews and firsthand accounts, shedding light on the decision-making processes and ideological shifts that have shaped Russia's domestic and foreign policies.
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Race After Technology
Abolitionist Tools for the New Jim Code
Ruha Benjamin
The book examines the intersection of race and technology, highlighting how digital tools and algorithms can perpetuate racial biases and discrimination, a phenomenon termed the "New Jim Code." It explores the social implications of these technologies and advocates for an abolitionist approach to counteract and dismantle these oppressive systems.
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Kamala's Way
An American Life
Dan Morain
The book chronicles the rise of Kamala Harris from her early years in Oakland to her tenure as the District Attorney of San Francisco and Attorney General of California, culminating in her role as the Vice President of the United States. It delves into her personal background, political career, and the strategic choices that shaped her path to becoming a prominent figure in American politics.
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How We Do Harm
A Doctor Breaks Ranks About Being Sick in America
Otis Webb Brawley
The book exposes the flaws and inequalities in the American healthcare system, highlighting how profit-driven practices and systemic racism lead to suboptimal care for patients. It provides a physician's perspective on the consequences of overtreatment, undertreatment, and the complex interplay between medicine, money, and patient well-being.
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The Hidden Brain
How Our Unconscious Minds Elect Presidents, Control Markets, Wage Wars, and Save Our Lives
Shankar Vedantam
The book explores the unconscious cognitive processes that influence human behavior, decision-making, and societal outcomes, revealing how these hidden forces shape our personal lives and collective experiences. It delves into various aspects of life, from politics and economics to personal relationships and conflicts, illustrating the power and implications of our subconscious minds.
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The Assault on Intelligence
American National Security in an Age of Lies
Michael V. Hayden
The book examines the impact of the post-truth era on American intelligence and national security, arguing that the spread of misinformation and the disregard for facts pose significant threats to the country. It provides an insider's perspective on how intelligence operations are being compromised by political agendas and a lack of respect for objective analysis.
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Demystifying Disability
What to Know, What to Say, and How to Be an Ally
Emily Ladau
The book provides guidance on understanding disability by breaking down myths and misconceptions, offering practical advice on respectful communication and interaction. It serves as a resource for readers to become informed allies, promoting inclusivity and accessibility in everyday life.
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