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52 pages 1 hour read

Ha-Joon Chang

23 Things they don't tell you about Capitalism

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2010

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In 23 Things They Don’t Tell You About Capitalism, Ha-Joon Chang challenges the tenets of neoliberal free-market economics through 23 essays that critique widely held beliefs, such as markets being truly "free" and self-interest being the primary human motivator. He advocates for a greater governmental role in the economy to ensure fairer outcomes and prevent future crises, drawing on historical examples and current economic issues post-2008 financial crisis.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Ha-Joon Chang's 23 Things They Don't Tell You About Capitalism offers insightful critiques of mainstream economic principles, blending wit and accessible language to demystify complex concepts. While praised for its readability and thought-provoking arguments, some critics note a lack of depth in certain areas. Overall, it’s a stimulating read that challenges conventional wisdom.

Who should read this

Who Should Read 23 Things they don't tell you about Capitalism?

The ideal reader for Ha-Joon Chang's 23 Things They Don't Tell You About Capitalism is intellectually curious, critical of mainstream economic theories, and eager to explore alternative perspectives. Fans of Michael Sandel's What Money Can't Buy and Naomi Klein's The Shock Doctrine will find this book thought-provoking and insightful.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years