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23 Things They Don't Tell You About Capitalism

Challenging Conventional Wisdom in Economics

Ha-Joon Chang author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Penguin Books Ltd

Published:1st Sep '11

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23 Things They Don't Tell You About Capitalism cover

This book offers a critical examination of economic myths, presenting alternative views on capitalism and globalization. 23 Things They Don't Tell You About Capitalism is a thought-provoking read.

In 23 Things They Don't Tell You About Capitalism, Ha-Joon Chang challenges conventional economic beliefs, offering a fresh perspective on how the global economy operates. He dismantles widely accepted myths, revealing that the notion of a 'free' market is a fallacy and that globalization may not be the boon it is often portrayed to be. Instead, Chang argues that poorer nations exhibit greater entrepreneurial spirit than their wealthier counterparts, inviting readers to reconsider their understanding of economic dynamics.

Throughout the book, Chang emphasizes that technological advancements, such as washing machines, have had a more profound impact on society than the internet. He critiques the idea that higher salaries for managers correlate with better performance, suggesting that the relationship between pay and productivity is more complex than commonly believed. By presenting these insights, 23 Things They Don't Tell You About Capitalism encourages readers to question the status quo and explore alternative economic frameworks.

Chang's accessible writing style makes complex economic concepts understandable, inviting a broader audience to engage with these critical discussions. The book serves as both an enlightening read and a call to action for those who wish to foster a more equitable and sustainable economic future. By exposing the myths that shape our economic landscape, Chang equips readers with the knowledge to challenge prevailing narratives and advocate for change.

A masterful debunking of some of the myths of capitalism ... Witty, iconoclastic and uncommonly commonsensical ... this book will be invaluable * Observer *
Important .. persuasive . [an] engaging case for a more cautious and caring era of globalisation * Financial Times *
Myth-busting and nicely-written . the best economists are those who look around at our man-made world and ask themselves "why?". Chang is one * Independent *
In 23 lucid, sometimes breezily didactic chapters, Chang takes apart the stricken ideology of neoliberalism. Chang's method is not to engage with the neoliberals but to knock them down with assertions. -- Paul Mason, Economics Editor, BBC Newsnight * Guardian *
Ha-Joon Chang is a formidable critic...and a true exponent of the art of political economy -- Michael Lind * Prospect *
Chang's...iconoclastic attitude has won him fans such as Bob Geldof and Noam Chomsky. -- Rachel Shields * The Independent on Sunday *
For anyone who wants to understand capitalism not as economists or politicians have pictured it, but as it actually operates, this book will be invaluable. -- John Gray * Observer *

ISBN: 9780141047973

Dimensions: 198mm x 130mm x 17mm

Weight: 227g

304 pages