Charles Derber ist ein Soziologe, der sich der zugänglichen und unterhaltsamen Darstellung tiefgreifender Themen wie Politik, Wirtschaft, Kapitalismus und sozialen Wandel widmet. Er schlägt eine Brücke zwischen akademischer Strenge und öffentlichem Intellektualismus und macht komplexe gesellschaftliche Probleme für ein breites Publikum greifbar. Angetrieben von einem lebenslangen Engagement für soziale Gerechtigkeit, untersucht seine Schrift die zeitgenössische Gesellschaft kritisch mit dem Ziel, zum Nachdenken anzuregen und ein tieferes Verständnis zu fördern. Derbers unverwechselbare Stimme bietet scharfe Einblicke in die Kräfte, die unsere Welt prägen.
By examining historical cases from the American South, Europe during the interwar period, and the U.S. involvement in Vietnam, the book explores the challenges of capitalism and leadership within modern western democracies. It offers insights into how past events shape current issues, providing a critical analysis of socio-economic dynamics and governance.
Upending the Security Tales in Capitalism, Fascism, and Democracy
The book provides a critical examination of how security narratives crafted by leaders serve not only to highlight real threats but also to justify their authority and the existing political and economic structures. Derber and Magrass reveal the irony that these stories, while intended to enhance security, often exacerbate feelings of insecurity among citizens and jeopardize national stability. Through this analysis, the authors challenge the effectiveness and implications of such narratives in contemporary society.
While security stories often point to real threats, the narratives of leaders are as much about legitimating the power of rulers and the political and economic system that brought them to power. Derber and Magrass offer a penetrating examination of this phenomenon across history and types of societies. Their analysis reveals the great irony about security stories: they historically increase insecurity, imperiling citizens and nation. In the US today, the contradiction is especially acute, as security stories told by Trump divide US citizens against one another. The book builds from an analysis of the extreme dangers of the prevailing security stories to a new paradigm of true security. The authors develop new approaches as our best hope for avoiding catastrophe and creating a socially just society based on real security for a nation and for humans across the planet.
Drawing on Thomas Pikettys bestseller Capital in the 21st Century, Derber raises fourteen capital questions as a guide a new conversation about the past and future of capitalism
Exploring the foundations of capitalism, this book delves into the evolution of political economy as an interdisciplinary field. It critically examines the interplay between economic theories and political structures, shedding light on how these elements shaped societal development. Through a bold narrative, it invites readers to rethink conventional economic wisdom and appreciate the complexities of historical and contemporary capitalism.
Before there was economics, there was political economy, an interdisciplinary adventure boldly and critically seeking to understand capitalism. Over time, the social sciences evolved into specific disciplines - economics, sociology, political science - that less often questioned capitalist perspectives and the state. Contrasting three traditions - neoclassicism, Keynesianism, and neo-Marxism - Should You Buy It? traces the historical development of each and evaluates whether they view capitalism as the root cause of or the solution to the pressing problems now facing humanity. This accessible and hopeful book is a call to everyone - citizen, student, public intellectual - to revive the critical edge towards capitalism.
The concept of a sociopathic society is explored through a detailed analysis of contemporary social dynamics and behaviors. Charles Derber argues that understanding this phenomenon is crucial for interpreting the challenges faced in today’s world. He illustrates how societal norms and values contribute to a culture that prioritizes self-interest and detachment, impacting relationships and community cohesion. Derber's insights provide a framework for recognizing and addressing the implications of these sociopathic tendencies in modern life.
Focusing on the interplay between global warming and the flaws of capitalism, this book presents a daring perspective that highlights environmental issues as reflections of deeper systemic problems. It advocates for transformative and attainable solutions, urging readers to envision a more sustainable future. Through its hopeful narrative, it challenges conventional views and inspires action towards significant change.
Focusing on the dual concept of "hidden power," this book explores the underlying forces shaping America's corporate regime and emphasizes the necessity for grassroots movements to effect real change. It critiques the limitations of electoral politics, asserting that true transformation requires more than just winning elections. By differentiating between party power and the broader power structures, it encourages citizens to recognize their potential to instigate regime change, offering insights that transcend political affiliations.