Books Like...
If you liked Political Tribes: Group Instinct and the Fate of Nations, here are the top 27 books to read next:
- #1
Save:A smart, thorough, and relatable look at how America became divided - must-read for anyone who wants to get past headlines and understand the roots of our political dysfunction, even if the solutions are less convincing than the diagnosis.
'Why We're Polarized' by Ezra Klein delves into the concept of political polarization in the United States. Klein explores how partisanship has evolved over time, leading to a deep divide within society. He discusses the impact of this polarization on elections, governance, and individual identities, providing insights into the historical roots and modern consequences of the issue. Through thorough analysis and engaging storytelling, Klein presents a compelling argument about the challenges posed by extreme partisanship and offers recommendations for addressing this societal issue.
January 2020•340 pages - #2
Save:A dense but illuminating exploration of the forces behind political divides, perfect for those ready to challenge their own assumptions and genuinely understand the other side. Not always light reading, but definitely rewarding.
'A Conflict of Visions' by Thomas Sowell delves into the dichotomy between the constrained and unconstrained visions of humanity, exploring how these differing worldviews shape political ideologies and social policies. Sowell presents a philosophical model that frames major economic and political viewpoints, highlighting the fundamental divide between those who see mankind as fallible and guided by processes (constrained vision) versus those who view humanity as perfectible and in need of elite leadership (unconstrained vision). Through illuminating discussions and comparisons of historical events, Sowell navigates the complexities of human nature, societal structures, and the implications of these contrasting visions on various aspects of society.
One of the curious things about political opinions is how often the same people line up on opposite sides of different issues. The issues themselves may have no intrinsic connection with each other. T...1986•330 pages - #3
Save:Thoughtful, well-reported, and often unsettling, Alberta’s book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the radical shift within American evangelicalism - and its far-reaching impact on the nation. Insightful, if not always comprehensive.
The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory by Tim Alberta is a detailed exploration of the American evangelical movement, particularly its evolution into a politically charged force. The book draws on Alberta's personal background as the son of an evangelical pastor, giving him a unique perspective on the rise of right-wing Christian nationalism over the past few decades. Alberta meticulously outlines how organizations like the Moral Majority and figures such as Jerry Falwell have shaped the interplay between faith and politics, often emphasizing fear and confrontation in their messaging.
Alberta’s writing style is accessible and engaging, making complex subjects understandable for general readers. He combines personal anecdotes with in-depth research, interviewing key pastors and believers to illustrate the conflict between traditional Christian teachings and the current political climate. While unraveling this intricate web, the book raises significant questions about faith, morality, and the future of Christianity in America, ultimately challenging readers to reflect on the implications of this radicalization.
2023•507 pages - #4
Save:A fast, eye-opening read that shines a light on why the boring parts of government matter - equal parts fascinating, alarming, and sobering, even if it sometimes feels like two books smushed together.
'The Fifth Risk: Undoing Democracy' by Michael Lewis delves into the transition and political appointments made during the Donald Trump presidency, focusing on key government agencies like the Department of Energy, the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Commerce. Through personal stories and detailed examinations, Lewis highlights the detrimental effects of Trump's appointees who lacked relevant experience and understanding of the agencies they were tasked to lead. underscores the risks posed by incompetence and ignorance in government leadership, shedding light on the essential functions of various federal agencies and the potential long-term consequences of neglecting their operations.
ON THE MORNING after the election, November 9, 2016, the people who ran the U.S. Department of Energy turned up in their offices and waited. They had cleared thirty desks and freed up thirty parking s...October 2018•256 pages A fast, engaging primer on free-market economics - provocative, influential, and still widely discussed. Whether you agree with Friedman or not, "Free to Choose" is a must-read for understanding the ongoing debate about the roles of government and markets.
Milton Friedman's 'Free to Choose: A Personal Statement' presents a compelling argument for maximizing free choice within societal limits. The book delves into various topics such as the benefits of free markets, the role of government in regulating natural monopolies, and the importance of individual freedom in economic growth. Friedman's writing style is clear, rational, and thought-provoking, making complex economic theories accessible to non-economists. Drawing on historical examples and data, the book advocates for free trade, limited government intervention, and the promotion of individual liberties.
Every day each of us uses innumerable goods and services—to eat, to wear, to shelter us from the elements, or simply to enjoy. We take it for granted that they will be available when we want to buy th...1980•360 pagesA fun, clear, and highly readable intro to economics that shows how the subject touches every part of our lives. Great for curious minds and those wanting to drop the fear factor from econ.
'Naked Economics: Undressing the Dismal Science' by Charles Wheelan is a highly accessible introduction to the complex world of economics. Through real-life examples, engaging storytelling, and a touch of humor, Wheelan breaks down fundamental economic concepts in a way that is understandable to readers without an extensive background in economics. serves as a gateway for readers to grasp economic theories, market dynamics, and the broader implications of economic decisions on society.
Wheelan's writing style in 'Naked Economics' is praised for its ability to merge economic theory with narrative storytelling, making the subject matter both simple and interesting. Readers appreciate the book for its clear explanations, engaging anecdotes, and the way it combines humor with educational content. is described as a good starting point for those looking to understand basic economic concepts in a highly accessible manner, without getting bogged down by technical jargon or complex equations.
In 1989, as the Berlin Wall was toppling, Douglas Ivester, head of Coca-Cola Europe (and later CEO), made a snap decision. He sent his sales force to Berlin and told them to start passing out Coke. Fr...September 2002•338 pagesA tough but essential read - perfect for digging into the roots of white power organizing in America, even if the prose isn’t perfect. Its insight and research outweigh its flaws.
Bring the War Home: The White Power Movement and Paramilitary America by Kathleen Belew is a deeply researched book that delves into the history of the white power movement in America, tracing its evolution from post-Vietnam era to the present day. The author sheds light on the alarming rise of white nationalism, revealing the terrifying extent of their weaponry, technology, and influence in mainstream politics. Belew explores the intricate web of connections between different white supremacist groups, their ideologies, and their violent actions, providing a cautionary tale of the dangers posed by these movements. Through detailed accounts of historical events like the Ruby Ridge standoff and the Waco siege, the book highlights the complex relationship between the white power movement, law enforcement, and the federal government.
The book is praised for its comprehensive coverage of various incarnations of right-wing groups, their ties to the Vietnam War, and the impact of historical events on the ideology and actions of white supremacists. Belew's analysis of the role of technology, gender dynamics, and the militarization of police forces in the white power movement offers a fresh perspective on this dark chapter of American history. Despite its heavy subject matter, the book is commended for its urgency in addressing the current resurgence of white nationalism and the importance of understanding the historical context to prevent future acts of violence.
LOUIS BEAM SPENT eighteen months in Vietnam. He served an extended tour as a gunner on a UH-1 Huey helicopter in the U.S. Army’s 25th Aviation Battalion. He logged more than a thousand hours shooting...April 2018•343 pagesSharp, essential, and painfully illuminating - a must-read for understanding the unrelenting pattern of systemic racism and why meaningful progress in America has always sparked a fierce backlash. Not an easy read, but an important one.
Carol Anderson's 'White Rage: The Unspoken Truth of Our Racial Divide' delves into the historical context of white supremacy and systemic racism in America, showcasing how advancements in racial equality for African Americans have consistently been met with backlash and oppression. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, the book uncovers the deep-rooted history of white rage, from Reconstruction to the modern-day challenges faced by black Americans. Anderson's writing style is informative, enlightening, and thought-provoking, providing readers with a comprehensive overview of key events and periods in black advancement while highlighting the continuous struggle for equality in the face of white dominance.
Although I first wrote about “white rage” in a Washington Post op-ed following the killing of Michael Brown and the subsequent uprising in Ferguson, Missouri, the concept started to germinate much ear...May 2016•279 pagesA bold, conversation-starting critique of contemporary youth culture and higher education - insightful for many, irritating for some, but sure to spark debate and self-reflection.
'The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure' by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt delves into the concept of 'safetyism' on college campuses, where students are shielded from opposing opinions that may cause emotional harm. The authors explore the impact of overprotective regimes, the rise of anxiety and depression among young people, and the consequences of limiting exposure to challenging ideas. Through real-world examples and social scientific analysis, Lukianoff and Haidt examine how modern society's pursuit of justice and the decline of free play have contributed to a culture where emotional safety is prioritized over intellectual growth.
When heaven is about to confer a great responsibility on any man, it will exercise his mind with suffering, subject his sinews and bones to hard work, expose his body to hunger, put him to poverty, pl...September 2018•350 pages- #10
Save:A rich, challenging, and thought-provoking read - best for those looking to dive deep into the tangled roots of how political orders came to be, with all their triumphs and pitfalls. Be prepared for a bit of a workout, but you'll come away smarter.
Francis Fukuyama's book 'The Origins of Political Order: From Prehuman Times to the French Revolution' is a comprehensive study that delves into the development of societies and governments from prehistorical times to the French Revolution. The book explores how different regions across the globe evolved to form their current political structures, covering topics such as the influence of cultural norms, the role of religion in politics, and the challenges of governance in various societies. Fukuyama's writing style is informative and thought-provoking, providing a thorough examination of the origins and development of political institutions.
At the beginning of the second decade of the twenty-first century, malaise in the democratic world took several distinct forms. The first was the outright reversal of democratic gains that had occurre...April 2011•604 pages
