by Thomas Frank
First published 2003
Thomas Frank examines how The Baffler magazine became a voice of reason during the late twentieth century's economic madness. The publication dedicated itself to exposing the absurdities of business culture worship while others celebrated the supposed New Economy dawn. Frank shows how Baffler writers operated from outside the libertarian revolution's power centers, observing what they called the most spectacular mass delirium of their generation. These journalists and critics watched as New Democrats courted Wall Street and economic reporting became mere cheerleading. Frank argues this period represented the most expensive political and financial con game in recent memory. The book collects updated writings from talented observers who documented the era's crescendo of foolishness. Frank positions their work as both entertainment and protection, designed to sharpen readers' critical thinking and guard against future economic delusions.
Genres: business, economics, non-fiction, journalism, academic, cultural-studies
Vibes: thought-provoking
Tropes: social-commentary
Setting: United States
Period: 20th-century, 21st-century
404 pages · Paperback · W. W. Norton & Company