Summaries of books about Sociology:
Take Back Your Time
Fighting Overwork and Time Poverty in America
John de Graaf
The book examines the cultural and economic forces driving Americans to work excessively long hours, leading to a state of "time poverty" where leisure and family time are undervalued. It proposes solutions to restore balance through policy changes, workplace reforms, and shifts in societal attitudes towards work and well-being.
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Billionaires
Reflections on the Upper Crust
Darrell M. West
The book examines the influence and impact of the ultra-wealthy on politics, economy, and society, analyzing how their power shapes public policy and democracy. It delves into the lives of the richest individuals, their means of wealth accumulation, and the implications of their philanthropy and political engagement.
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More than Medicine
The Broken Promise of American Health
Robert M. Kaplan
The book critically examines the United States healthcare system, highlighting its inefficiencies and the over-reliance on medical interventions that often fail to address the root causes of poor health. It argues for a broader approach to health that includes social and environmental factors, suggesting that investing in social services could lead to better health outcomes than medical care alone.
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The Real Cost of Fracking
How America's Shale Gas Boom Is Threatening Our Families, Pets, and Food
Michelle Bamberger|Robert Oswald
The book presents an examination of the environmental and health risks associated with hydraulic fracturing (fracking) in the United States, particularly focusing on the impact on families, animals, and the food supply. It compiles personal narratives and scientific studies to argue that the shale gas extraction boom poses significant, often overlooked threats to public health and safety.
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Where Did You Get This Number?
A Pollster's Guide to Making Sense of the World
Anthony Salvanto
The book provides an insider's look at the world of polling, explaining how polls are conducted, what the numbers mean, and the science behind survey methods. It also delves into the interpretation of public opinion and the role of polls in politics and media, offering readers a deeper understanding of the statistics that shape perceptions of society and elections.
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Blowout in the Gulf
The BP Oil Spill Disaster and the Future of Energy in America
William R. Freudenburg|Robert Gramling
The book examines the causes and consequences of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, analyzing the environmental, political, and economic impacts of the disaster. It also discusses the role of the oil industry in American energy policy and the implications for future energy sustainability and safety.
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The Perception of Risk
Paul Slovic
The book explores the psychological factors that influence how people perceive and respond to various risks, examining the disparities between expert assessments and public understanding. It delves into the implications of these perceptions for health, safety, and environmental policy, highlighting the importance of effective communication and trust in managing societal risks.
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High Wire
The Precarious Financial Lives of American Families
Peter Gosselin
The book examines the increasing financial risks that American families face, such as job insecurity, fluctuating incomes, and the erosion of social safety nets. It explores the shift of financial burdens from the government and corporations onto individuals, highlighting the challenges of managing economic uncertainty in daily life.
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The Corona Generation
Coming Of Age In A Crisis
Jennie Bristow|Emma Gilland
The book explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on young people, examining how the crisis has disrupted their education, job prospects, and social lives. It delves into the long-term effects on this generation's worldview and opportunities, as well as their resilience and adaptability in the face of unprecedented challenges.
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The Border Within
The Economics of Immigration in an Age of Fear
Tara Watson|Kalee Thompson
The book examines the economic impact of immigration on the United States, exploring how immigrants shape labor markets, public finances, and broader economic outcomes. It also delves into the social and political tensions surrounding immigration, analyzing policies and proposing solutions to address fears and maximize the benefits of a diverse society.
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