52 pages • 1 hour read
Saving Capitalism: For the Many, Not the Few
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Book Brief
219
Book • Nonfiction
2015
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Saving Capitalism, Robert B. Reich explores the manipulation of America's political-economic system by large corporations, wealthy individuals, and Wall Street, leading to growing economic inequality. Divided into three sections—“The Free Market,” “Work and Worth,” and “Countervailing Power”—the book dissects how rules governing property, monopoly, contracts, bankruptcy, and enforcement are skewed to benefit the few. Reich argues that wage stagnation and exorbitant CEO pay result from market manipulation, not market forces. He examines the decline of unions, the rise in political contributions from the wealthy, and suggests restoring countervailing power through new alliances and policy changes to balance stakeholder and shareholder interests.
Informative
Challenging
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
6,841 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
In Saving Capitalism, Robert B. Reich provides a compelling critique of the economic system, calling for reforms to address inequality. Reviewers praise its accessible writing and strong argument for policy change. Critics, however, note it occasionally simplifies complex issues. Overall, it's a thought-provoking read with practical insights into modern capitalism.
Who Should Read Saving Capitalism?
Readers who would enjoy Saving Capitalism by Robert B. Reich are politically engaged, economically curious, and interested in systemic critiques. They likely appreciate books like Capital in the Twenty-First Century by Thomas Piketty and The Future of Capitalism by Paul Collier due to their in-depth analysis and focus on economic reform.
6,841 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Bill Clinton
Bill Clinton
The 42nd president of the United States, whose administration is critiqued for pro-business policies that contributed to income inequality. His presidency offers a historical backdrop for Reich's analysis.
Ronald Reagan
Ronald Reagan
The 40th president of the United States, characterized by small government and deregulation initiatives. His policies are often critiqued for weakening financial regulations and labor rights.
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
A government agency responsible for enforcing market laws and protecting investors, criticized for its reduced efficacy in ensuring financial regulation due to various limitations.
Wall Street
Wall Street
A metonym for the U.S. financial services industry, critiqued for its excessive influence on policy-making and the growing disparity in wealth and income, as examined by Reich.
Koch Brothers
Koch Brothers
Influential billionaire businessmen and political donors associated with funding conservative and libertarian causes. Their financial contributions exemplify the significant political power held by wealthy individuals.
Amazon
Amazon
A major multinational company noted for its vast market power and lobbying efforts, representing corporate influence over market dynamics in Reich's discussions.
219
Book • Nonfiction
2015
Adult
18+ years
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