by Tony Judt
First published 2010
Tony Judt examines what has gone wrong with contemporary political thinking in the wake of economic crisis. The historian traces how Western societies abandoned the postwar social contract that once guaranteed basic security and fairness to citizens. Judt argues that both market fundamentalism and old socialist models have failed, leaving a dangerous void in political discourse. He advocates for social democracy as a third path, one that empowers government to enhance citizens' lives without sacrificing individual freedom. Rather than trusting markets alone, this approach places faith in democratic institutions and civic responsibility. Judt challenges readers to reject the status quo and embrace alternatives that prioritize collective welfare. The book provides a framework for reimagining governance and social organization in an era of widespread uncertainty.
Genres: history, political-science, economics, non-fiction, 21st-century, academic
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: social-commentary
Period: 20th-century, 21st-century
237 pages · Hardcover · The Penguin Press HC