Scan barcode
thesauraz's review against another edition
3.0
The problem statements, proposals, and conclusions outlined in this book are exquisite; it was compelling to learn about the ramifications of supply side economics and learn Mr Stiglitz's reasoned approach for government involvement in creating a better path forward for America. His focus on the environment, education, technology and innovation lay out a profound but reasonable approach to government's role in our capitalist society.
What I didn't like about the book was Mr Stiglitz's style of writing. In a small sense, the continual cross-referencing of different chapters in the book and overuse of hyperbole eroded a bit of the factual appeal. But, more importantly, I found his writing bereft of examples and clarity on key points. Some of this is just personal nonfiction preference; I like to see arguments backed with strong examples, and I think that exaggeration does little to advance a talking point. For instance, on page 165 he claims, "President George H.W. Bush should perhaps be given credit for initiating the assault on the Court, with the appointment of a grossly unqualified judge, Clarence Thomas." This is followed by no supplemental information, no citation, nothing.
It's part of a larger issue I take with the overwhelming partisanship of the publication. Look, I cannot stand our current administration, but when I read nonfiction, I want the capacity to draw my own conclusions based on factual analysis. When I read about the president's devotees being "seemingly immune from the truth" I, though I don't disagree, am not left with any space to draw conclusions based on evidence. Personally, I find it to be stronger writing when an author presents a case in fairly nonpartisan terms but paints a picture with such strong examples that I land on those conclusions nonetheless.
Despite this, the book is undoubtedly well-researched and thought-provoking. For anyone invested in better understanding the broken institutions of today, and how we can create a just and equitable society and economy for all Americans, this book offers an excellent starting point.
What I didn't like about the book was Mr Stiglitz's style of writing. In a small sense, the continual cross-referencing of different chapters in the book and overuse of hyperbole eroded a bit of the factual appeal. But, more importantly, I found his writing bereft of examples and clarity on key points. Some of this is just personal nonfiction preference; I like to see arguments backed with strong examples, and I think that exaggeration does little to advance a talking point. For instance, on page 165 he claims, "President George H.W. Bush should perhaps be given credit for initiating the assault on the Court, with the appointment of a grossly unqualified judge, Clarence Thomas." This is followed by no supplemental information, no citation, nothing.
It's part of a larger issue I take with the overwhelming partisanship of the publication. Look, I cannot stand our current administration, but when I read nonfiction, I want the capacity to draw my own conclusions based on factual analysis. When I read about the president's devotees being "seemingly immune from the truth" I, though I don't disagree, am not left with any space to draw conclusions based on evidence. Personally, I find it to be stronger writing when an author presents a case in fairly nonpartisan terms but paints a picture with such strong examples that I land on those conclusions nonetheless.
Despite this, the book is undoubtedly well-researched and thought-provoking. For anyone invested in better understanding the broken institutions of today, and how we can create a just and equitable society and economy for all Americans, this book offers an excellent starting point.
kwheeles's review against another edition
5.0
HIGHEST RATING. Well-supported, tightly-reasoned, and deliciously well-written powerhouse of a book from Nobel-prize winning economist Joseph Stiglitz. This book expresses my own thoughts (surprisingly so) with clarity, depth and scope befitting the importance of the subject. READ THIS BOOK!!
noodal's review against another edition
5.0
A must-read for Americans, especially those frustrated with the current political climate and the overwhelming media on the state of the country. Stiglitz maps out a hopeful future for what was once the world's leading superpower and identifies with detail the various economic and social elements that are necessary for reform. A bit heavy on the criticism of the Trump administration for my taste, but nonetheless an important discussion. As a non-citizen to the US, the lessons from this book will be invaluable in informing economic policies in developing countries and emerging economies, such as my own of Indonesia, potentially providing a platform in which to leapfrog the ancient market dynamics of the 21st Century capitalism that has degraded much of the socioeconomic conditions in the US.
ldvico's review against another edition
Too wide ranging and shallow. It reads like a novel, which wouldn't be a problem if it wasn't an essay by a renowned economist. Sure the author wrote (allegedly) better books on each of the topics covered by this one, so why did he write it? No idea, it wasn't necessary at all.
arfranco's review against another edition
3.0
3.5 stars is what I would give it if I could. Good information and some thought-provoking thesis but it was repetitive at times and I feel like the topics didn't always flow from one chapter to the next. Good primer maybe if you're interested in the topic and LOTS of research in the appendix if you want to delve deeper into any one of the topics he brings up.
bootman's review against another edition
5.0
I’ll keep this review short and sweet. If you don’t know who Joseph E. Stiglitz is, he’s an economist, but he’s also a progressive. Fortunately, he’s also an amazing writer. He tackles topics about how capitalism is one of the primary causes of human suffering in the United States and has the research to back it up and a great communication style. He also discusses fantastic solutions.
The reason I’m keeping htis short is because he has a ton of books, they’re all similar and I love them all. They remind me of the change we need here in America, and everyone should be reading his books.
The reason I’m keeping htis short is because he has a ton of books, they’re all similar and I love them all. They remind me of the change we need here in America, and everyone should be reading his books.
kristenleeluna's review against another edition
challenging
hopeful
informative
reflective
slow-paced
4.5
Sometimes you just want to read a book that validates your political views and Nobel laureate Jo Stiglitz delivers. Informative, inclusive and considered, Jo clearly lays out the issues the USA faces against neoliberalism and the hegemony of trickle down economics. He proposes feasible economic solutions and makes the point these solutions are easy economically, and tough politically. Good read!