An insightful and well-researched book that details how libertarian industrialists like the Koch brothers have (and continue to) systematically undermine America’s democratic system to impose their worldview. In a narrative that starts from the 1940s, it shows how, using the anonymity of charitable organisations, they have penetrated everything from academia to political activism, and have supplanted the Republican Party. A fascinating read.
In eleven stories and 150 pages, the author showcases how words are worlds. The subjects range from mythology, fantasy and social media influencers to murder, sexuality and horror. You’re sure to find a few favourites!
The printing press was once called the biggest source of distraction, but technology has come a long way since then, and made sure that it is extremely difficult to not get distracted! Nir Eyal provides a systematic guide, keeping things simple, to navigate our personal and professional lives and become “indistractable”.
Industrial capitalism exploited nature and gave us the bounty of comforts we enjoy in the modern era. Surveillance capitalism is exploiting human nature. The consequences are that there is increasingly no refuge, no sanctuary, from the relentless efforts of corporations that are intent on controlling every facet of an individual’s existence. In the current trajectory, it will lead to a further consolidation of wealth and power. Not an easy read, but most definitely a must read.
My favourite reads of 2020. An eclectic mix of fiction, almost fiction, and non-fiction. From data, digital advertising and free will to political institutions, mass extinctions and philosophy, a little bit of everything.