Noam Chomsky's Requiem for the American Dream provides a compelling critique of wealth inequality and corporate influence in American politics. Reviews praise Chomsky's clear analysis and engaging arguments, though some note his pessimistic tone and lack of actionable solutions. Nonetheless, it is widely regarded as a significant contribution to political discourse.

A reader who values critical analysis of social and political structures would enjoy Requiem for the American Dream by Noam Chomsky. Comparable to Capital in the Twenty-First Century by Thomas Piketty and The Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein, it suits those interested in inequality, democracy, and the concentration of wealth and power.

Requiem for the American Dream by Noam Chomsky analyzes the rise of income inequality in the US over the past four decades, attributing it to neoliberalism’s concentration of wealth and power among the elite. Chomsky outlines ten principles employed by the wealthy to undermine democracy, including financialization, manipulating ideology, shifting economic burdens, attacking solidarity, influencing elections, controlling regulations, undermining labor, manufacturing consent, and promoting division to maintain control. The book examines how these methods affect socioeconomic conditions and democratic values in contemporary society. The book addresses sensitive topics such as systemic economic inequality and political manipulation.

Informative / Mysterious / Contemplative / Dark

Noam Chomsky

Adult

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Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

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Requiem for the American Dream Summary and Study Guide

Background

Requiem for the American Dream Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Preface-Principle 3

Requiem for the American Dream Preface-Principle 3 Summary & Analysis

Principles 4-7

Requiem for the American Dream Principles 4-7 Summary & Analysis

Principles 8-10

Requiem for the American Dream Principles 8-10 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

Requiem for the American Dream Key Figures

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Themes

Requiem for the American Dream Themes

Index of Terms

Requiem for the American Dream Index of Terms

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Important Quotes

Requiem for the American Dream Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Requiem for the American Dream Essay Topics

Requiem for the American Dream: The 10 Principles of Concentration of Wealth & Power

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Requiem for the American Dream?

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Book Details