Summaries of books about Politics & Social Sciences:
Mine!
How the Hidden Rules of Ownership Control Our Lives
Michael A. Heller|James Salzman
The book explores the concept of ownership and how it shapes the world around us, delving into six simple stories that govern who gets what and why. It examines the often invisible rules that influence everyday life, from airplane seats to drinking water, revealing the power struggles behind the allocation of resources and property.
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Asking for It
The Alarming Rise of Rape Culture--and What We Can Do about It
Kate Harding
The book examines the pervasive problem of sexual assault and the cultural attitudes that often blame victims rather than holding perpetrators accountable. It explores the ways in which society can change its perceptions and responses to rape to better support survivors and prevent future assaults.
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Superpower
Three Choices for America's Role in the World
Ian Bremmer
The book presents three distinct strategic visions for America's future role in international affairs: Indispensable America, which advocates for active global leadership; Moneyball America, which suggests a pragmatic approach focusing on cost-benefit analysis; and Independent America, which argues for a more isolationist stance prioritizing domestic issues. Through these lenses, the author examines the potential consequences of each strategy on global stability and America's place in the world.
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On Saudi Arabia
Its People, Past, Religion, Fault Lines - and Future
Karen Elliott House
The book provides an in-depth exploration of the complex society of Saudi Arabia, examining its tribal and religious dynamics, economic challenges, and political structure. It offers insights into the lives of the Saudi people, the influence of Wahhabism, the role of women, and the potential paths the kingdom could take in the future.
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When China Rules the World
The End of the Western World and the Birth of a New Global Order: Second Edition
Martin Jacques
The book presents a thesis that as China's economic power grows, it will challenge the global dominance of the West and reshape the world order with its own cultural, political, and economic influences. It analyzes historical, economic, and socio-political factors to argue that China's rise will lead to a fundamentally different global system, not merely a larger version of the West.
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The People Vs Tech
How the Internet Is Killing Democracy
Jamie Bartlett
The book argues that the digital age, particularly the monopolistic control of data by tech giants and the use of algorithms, is undermining the foundations of democratic society by destabilizing free elections, eroding civil liberties, and fostering polarization. It offers a series of practical solutions to reclaim control over technology and ensure that it serves the public good, thereby protecting democracy.
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Palaces for the People
How Social Infrastructure Can Help Fight Inequality, Polarization, and the Decline of Civic Life
Eric Klinenberg
The book argues that investing in shared social spaces like libraries, parks, and community centers—termed "social infrastructure"—can foster stronger communities, reduce inequality, and improve overall civic life. It presents evidence and case studies demonstrating how these inclusive public institutions serve as crucial meeting grounds that promote connections, democracy, and resilience in the face of challenges.
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The Corrosion of Conservatism
Why I Left the Right
Max Boot
The book is a personal account of a lifelong conservative's disillusionment with the right-wing political landscape, particularly in the era of Donald Trump. It critiques the Republican Party's shift away from traditional conservative values and towards a more nationalist and populist agenda, leading the author to reassess his own political beliefs and affiliations.
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Move Fast and Break Things
How Facebook, Google, and Amazon Cornered Culture and Undermined Democracy
Jonathan Taplin
The book critiques the power wielded by tech giants like Facebook, Google, and Amazon, arguing that their monopolistic practices stifle competition, exploit personal data, and harm cultural production. It explores the consequences of their dominance on democracy, privacy, and the creative economy, advocating for regulatory reforms to curb their influence and protect public interests.
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#NeverAgain
A New Generation Draws the Line
David Hogg|Lauren Hogg
The book provides a firsthand account of the tragic mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, and follows the aftermath as the survivors turn their grief into a national youth movement for gun control. It details the personal experiences and advocacy efforts of the Hogg siblings, who became prominent activists in the wake of the shooting.
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