Summaries of books about Politics & Social Sciences:
Merchants of Truth
The Business of News and the Fight for Facts
Jill Abramson
The book examines the challenges and transformations in the news industry by comparing the experiences of two legacy newspapers, The New York Times and The Washington Post, with two digital upstarts, BuzzFeed and VICE. It explores the tension between traditional journalism values and the pressures of staying afloat in the digital age, including issues like the rise of clickbait, the impact of social media, and the importance of investigative reporting.
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The Economic Weapon
The Rise of Sanctions as a Tool of Modern War
Nicholas Mulder
The book explores the historical development and use of economic sanctions from World War I to the present, examining their role as instruments of warfare and foreign policy. It analyzes the effectiveness, ethical implications, and the political and humanitarian consequences of sanctions as a coercive tool in international relations.
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Superclass
The Global Power Elite and the World They Are Making
David Rothkopf
The book examines a group of the world's most influential people, a global elite that shapes the economy, politics, and environment on a massive scale. It delves into their backgrounds, how they interact, the networks they form, and the immense power they wield over the lives of billions.
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Antisocial Media
How Facebook Disconnects Us and Undermines Democracy
Siva Vaidhyanathan
The book critically examines the impact of Facebook on social discourse, privacy, and democratic processes, arguing that the platform's design and algorithms foster division, misinformation, and polarization. It delves into the consequences of Facebook's business model and its role in shaping public opinion and political outcomes on a global scale.
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Cheap
The High Cost of Discount Culture
Ellen Ruppel Shell
The book explores the consequences of consumers' obsession with discounts and low prices, revealing how this fixation undermines quality, distorts markets, and harms workers and the environment. It delves into the psychology and economics behind cheap manufacturing and retailing, illustrating the hidden impacts on society and individual well-being.
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The Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism
Max Weber
The book explores the relationship between the ethics of ascetic Protestantism and the emergence of the spirit of modern capitalism, arguing that Protestant religious ideas influenced the development of capitalism. It examines how the Calvinist emphasis on hard work, discipline, and frugality became integral to capitalist culture and economic success.
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Dark Ages America
The Final Phase of Empire
Morris Berman
The book presents a critical analysis of the decline of American culture and global influence, arguing that the United States is in a state of economic, political, and intellectual decay. It explores historical precedents and current indicators that suggest America is experiencing a downfall similar to that of past empires.
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Raising Lazarus
Hope, Justice, and the Future of America's Overdose Crisis
Beth Macy
The book delves into the opioid epidemic in the United States, exploring the lives affected by addiction and the influence of pharmaceutical companies. It also highlights the efforts of activists and reformers who are fighting for more compassionate and effective responses to the crisis.
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War on the Middle Class
How the Government, Big Business, and Special Interest Groups Are Waging War ont he American Dream and How to Fight Back
Lou Dobbs
The book presents a critique of the economic and political forces that the author believes are undermining the prosperity and stability of the American middle class, including government policies, corporate greed, and the influence of special interest groups. It also offers suggestions for how individuals can respond and advocate for policies that support the interests of the middle class.
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Behind the Kitchen Door
Saru Jayaraman
The book exposes the harsh realities of the restaurant industry, highlighting the exploitation of workers, including low wages, poor working conditions, and the lack of benefits. It also discusses the impact of these practices on the food served and calls for a change in the industry to ensure fair treatment and dignity for employees.
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