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Timothy MitchellA modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
288
Book • Nonfiction
Global • 20th century
2011
Adult
18+ years
Carbon Democracy: Political Power in the Age of Oil by Timothy Mitchell examines the relationship between carbon-based energy (coal and oil) and democracy, arguing that coal and oil workers increased their political power by exploiting production vulnerabilities. The transition from coal to oil weakened worker influence, altering democratic dynamics. Mitchell explores imperial manipulation in oil-rich regions and the geopolitical strategies used to control oil supplies, highlighting ongoing instability and the environmental crisis linked to oil dependence. The book discusses imperial violence, wars, and enforced instability in the Middle East.
Informative
Challenging
Contemplative
Mysterious
Unnerving
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Timothy Mitchell's Carbon Democracy offers a compelling analysis of the interplay between fossil fuels and political power, praised for its innovative approach and interdisciplinary insights. However, some critics find it dense and occasionally convoluted. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read that challenges conventional understandings of democracy and energy.
Readers who would enjoy Carbon Democracy by Timothy Mitchell are typically interested in the intersections of energy, politics, and history. Fans of works like Naomi Klein's This Changes Everything or Jared Diamond's Collapse will appreciate Mitchell’s in-depth analysis of how fossil fuels influenced modern democracies.
972 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
288
Book • Nonfiction
Global • 20th century
2011
Adult
18+ years
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