Books matching: economic transformation
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A haunting, well-researched look at the unraveling of small-town America, Glass House packs an emotional punch and brings the hidden consequences of economic shifts into sharp focus. It's dense at times but absolutely worth it if you want to understand why the American Dream can seem so out of reach.
"Glass House: The 1% Economy and the Shattering of the All-American Town" by Brian Alexander is a compelling account of the economic collapse of Lancaster, Ohio, a small industrial town in America. The author weaves together the story of the Anchor Hocking Glass Company and the lives of the people dependent on it, showcasing the impact of corporatization, private equity, and the decline of manufacturing on the town. Through a mix of nostalgia, sadness, and rage, the book takes readers on a journey through the town's history, from its industrial heyday to its struggles in the face of globalization and the opioid epidemic.
Brian Gossett worked the late shift, running an H-28 job: football-size vases, about the most difficult ware he made. A 2,400-degree lava-like ribbon of glass flowed out of Tank 3, a refractory furnac...February 2017•332 pages- #2
Save:A fascinating, trivia-packed romp through one pivotal summer - Bryson’s love for history is infectious, even if the book occasionally packs in more detail than necessary. Recommended for fans of fun, fact-rich storytelling.
"One Summer: America, 1927" by Bill Bryson provides a snapshot of several months in 1927, capturing a country on the brink of becoming a dominant force in the 20th century. Bryson's approach to history is both focused and rambling, covering significant themes and developments through singular events that occurred during this period. From Charles Lindbergh's historic flight across the Atlantic to Babe Ruth's remarkable baseball season, the book delves into a range of topics including prohibition, aviation, cinema, and prominent figures like Al Capone and Herbert Hoover.
TEN DAYS BEFORE he became so famous that crowds would form around any building that contained him and waiters would fight over a corncob left on his dinner plate, no one had heard of Charles Lindbergh...October 2013•551 pages 'The Oligarchs: Wealth and Power in the New Russia' by David E. Hoffman delves into the rise and fall of the Russian Oligarchs during the Yeltsin era, showcasing their manipulation of the new capitalist system in post-Soviet Russia. Through detailed accounts of the Oligarchs' acquisition of massive wealth and power, the book sheds light on the corruption, abuses, and major errors that characterized the period, offering insights into the political and economic landscape of Russia at that time. Hoffman's writing style captures the essence of the era, portraying a narrative filled with money, power, corruption, and the complex interplay between Oligarchs, politicians, and mobsters.
IN THE SUMMER HEAT, the glass facade of Kursky Station loomed above the sweaty crowds. The train station hall was a monumental box of glass, concrete, and space; it was stark, modern, even utopian, an...February 2002•605 pagesA lively, accessible primer on globalization’s big waves - and why they matter - though not everyone will buy Friedman’s hopeful lens or his take on East vs. West. Worth reading if you want to get your head around how tech, business, and borders now collide, even if you'll want to supplement it with other perspectives.
'The World Is Flat' by Thomas L. Friedman explores the impact of digital communication technology on globalization, individual empowerment, and the transformation of various aspects of human relationships. Through a series of examples and anecdotes, Friedman discusses how advancements in technology are reshaping the world economically, socially, and politically. delves into topics such as outsourcing, the interconnectedness of different countries through IT industry partnerships, and the challenges and opportunities presented by a more digitally connected world. Friedman's writing style is investigative and passionate, aiming to inform readers about the ongoing transformations in the world due to technological advancements.
Your Highnesses, as Catholic Christians, and princes who love and promote the holy Christian faith, and are enemies of the doctrine of Mahomet, and of all idolatry and heresy, determined to send me, C...2005•612 pagesA bold and necessary rethink of economics for our time - thought-provoking, approachable, and genuinely hopeful, even if it leaves some of the hardest questions on the table. If you want to understand the new frontiers of economic thinking, this is essential reading.
'Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st-Century Economist' by Kate Raworth presents a transformative perspective on economics, urging a shift from the traditional focus on GDP growth to a more balanced and sustainable approach. Raworth introduces the concept of the doughnut model, emphasizing the need to consider social equity, environmental concerns, and human well-being in economic decision-making. Through a combination of technical detail and clear writing, Raworth challenges the existing economic paradigm and advocates for a more holistic and inclusive approach to economic theory.
Raworth's writing style is praised for its ability to distill complex ideas into simple and straightforward concepts, making the book accessible to a wide audience. The author's background in economics and experience in environmental and human development studies lend credibility to her arguments, as she articulates a vision for a more equitable and regenerative economic system. By addressing the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental factors, Raworth encourages readers to rethink traditional economic assumptions and consider new approaches to economic policy and practice.
In October 2008, Yuan Yang arrived at Oxford University to study economics. Born in China and raised in Yorkshire, she had the outlook of a global citizen: passionate about current affairs, concerned...February 2017•384 pagesA thought-provoking, hopeful, and surprisingly readable call to rethink our obsession with growth. "Less is More" will challenge your assumptions - whether you’re a climate-action newbie or a seasoned eco-warrior.
'Less is More: How Degrowth Will Save the World' by Jason Hickel is a well-written exploration of challenging growthism ideologies and advocating for degrowth. It provides a concise introduction to the history of capitalism, the need for reducing material consumption, and transitioning to renewable energy. The author presents a compelling case for shifting from perpetual growth to a regenerative ecological economics story, emphasizing balance, biodiversity, and community values.
We humans have been on this planet for nearly 300,000 years; fully evolved, fully intelligent, exactly as we are today. For approximately 97% of that time our ancestors lived in relative harmony with...August 2020•330 pagesA monumental, challenging, but deeply rewarding work that’s essential for anyone who wants to understand how social movements shape history - just make sure you bring your curiosity (and maybe a timeline for reference)!
'The Making of the English Working Class' by E.P. Thompson delves into the formative years of artisan and working-class society from 1780 to 1832. It explores how the working class actively participated in shaping their own destiny, despite facing loss of status and freedom. The author vividly recreates the life experiences of individuals who endured degradation but managed to create a culture and political consciousness marked by vitality. is praised for shedding light on how the working class contributed to the societal changes of the 19th century.
1. See Anthony Lincoln, Social and Political Ideas of English Dissent, 1763–1830 (Cambridge, 1938), and R. V. Holt, The Unitarian Contribution to Social Progress in England (1938). For briefer surveys...1963•856 pagesExpansive, fascinating, and full of unexpected insights, "1493" is a must-read for anyone curious about the global forces that shaped our modern world - but be ready for a dense, detail-rich journey!
'1493: Uncovering the New World Columbus Created' by Charles C. Mann is a sequel to '1491' that delves into the global effects of the Columbian Exchange post Columbus's voyages to the Americas. Mann covers the massive changes in diet, crops, plants, animals, pests, diseases, and ideas around the world brought about by the new global trade interactions. The book is well researched and filled with fascinating information about the intertwining of different cultures and ecosystems due to the exchange of goods and people across continents.
Mann's writing style in '1493' is described as clear, engaging, and well-organized, providing readers with a comprehensive look at the aftermath of European discovery of the Americas. The author weaves together biology, agriculture, anthropology, warfare, ecology, and economics to tell a consistently interesting story about the impact of the Columbian Exchange on shaping the modern world civilization, making readers rethink their understanding of global history and its long-lasting effects.
It is just possible that John Rolfe was responsible for the worms. Earthworms, to be precise—the common nightcrawler and the red marsh worm, creatures that did not exist in the Americas before 1492. R...August 2011•734 pagesBoth a passionate wake-up call and a data-packed critique, Klein’s book challenges us to rethink our economic systems if we hope to save the planet. Unflinching, ambitious, and controversial - perfect for those ready to confront the elephant in the room.
'This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. The Climate' by Naomi Klein is a deeply researched and eye-opening exploration of the urgent need to address climate change within the context of capitalism. Klein delves into the complexities of the forces behind climate change denialism, highlighting the disastrous effects of the combination of climate change and neoliberalism. Through well-researched arguments and personal journalism, Klein emphasizes the incompatibility of current capitalist practices with solving climate issues, pointing towards the elite minority obstructing necessary actions for the benefit of the vast majority. skillfully weaves together the interrelatedness of political, economic, and pseudo-scientific factors, advocating for significant social and political transformations to combat the impending climate crisis.
“Climate scientists agree: climate change is happening here and now. Based on well-established evidence, about 97 percent of climate scientists have concluded that human-caused climate change is happe...September 2014•587 pages'From Third World to First: The Singapore Story, 1965-2000' by Lee Kuan Yew is a stimulating read that challenges the reader's thinking by discussing issues rather than following a linear structure. It provides insights into Lee Kuan Yew's visits and views on various countries, along with forthright analysis of world leaders. offers a broad picture of Asia's history and the region's development from the 1950s onwards, making it an excellent resource for understanding the Tiger economies and the transformation of Singapore into an economic powerhouse.
There are books to teach you how to build a house, how to repair engines, how to write a book. But I have not seen a book on how to build a nation out of a disparate collection of immigrants from Chin...October 2000•776 pages
