Carbon Democracy by Timothy Mitchell is a thought-provoking book that challenges the simplistic notion that oil is solely responsible for the political instability and inequality in oil-producing countries. Mitchell argues that oil has shaped the global economy and politics in ways that are often overlooked. He traces the history of coal power and oil production to show how the rise of democracy was influenced by energy sources. The book offers a fresh perspective on the relationship between energy, democracy, and the environment, making it a must-read for anyone interested in these topics. Recommended for students of political science, environmental studies, and history, Carbon Democracy offers a unique perspective on the role of energy in shaping modern politics. The book is relevant to anyone interested in understanding the complex relationship between democracy, energy, and the environment. It sheds light on the political and economic consequences of our dependence on oil, and the challenges that lie ahead as we transition to a more sustainable future. This book has implications for policymakers, activists, and citizens concerned about the future of democracy and the planet.

Ruth Wilson Gilmore's Golden Gulag is a thought-provoking account that delves into the political and economic forces behind the exponential growth of the US prison system. Gilmore's impassioned analysis examines the impact of global and local factors on California's prison boom, detailing the crises that led to the state's commitment to prison expansion. With a focus on the state's surpluses of finance capital, labor, land, and state capacity, Gilmore challenges readers to question the future of California, the United States, and the world. Golden Gulag is an important read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the US criminal justice system. Recommended for students of criminology, sociology, and political science, Golden Gulag offers a fresh perspective on the US criminal justice system. Ruth Wilson Gilmore's analysis of California's prison boom provides insight into the political and economic forces behind the exponential growth of the US prison system. This book is particularly relevant for those interested in understanding the impact of global and local factors on the criminal justice system, as well as the intersectionality of race, class, and gender in the prison industrial complex. Golden Gulag challenges readers to question the future of the US criminal justice system and its impact on society as a whole.

Discover the fascinating differences in how people from different cultures perceive and understand the world around them in Richard Nisbett's "The Geography of Thought." Through groundbreaking research in cultural psychology, Nisbett explores how ancient Greek and Chinese philosophies, social structures, and educational systems have influenced the way East Asians and Westerners think. While East Asians take a holistic approach, Westerners focus on individual objects and people. This book offers a blueprint for bridging the gap between these two ways of thinking and is a must-read for anyone interested in cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Recommended for students of psychology, sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies, "The Geography of Thought" offers a unique perspective on the differences between Eastern and Western ways of thinking. Professionals in fields such as business, education, and international relations will also benefit from understanding how cultural differences can impact communication and collaboration. Additionally, this book is relevant to anyone interested in cross-cultural understanding and exploring the complexities of human thought and perception.

In the world of risk and prediction, are you a hedgehog or a fox? The philosopher Isaiah Berlin wrote about the two animals, with the hedgehog knowing one big thing and the fox knowing many things. Political scientist Philip Tetlock found that foxes were better at predicting than hedgehogs, who were too confident in their forecasts. To be a good forecaster, one needs to be open to new knowledge, have insight into biases, and be willing to acknowledge uncertainty and change their minds. Rather than saying what will happen, good forecasters give probabilities for future events. So, are you willing to be a fox and adapt to changing circumstances, or will you be a hedgehog and stick to one overarching way of looking at the world? By being a fox, you can improve your ability to predict and make better decisions for the future.

Rebel Cities by David Harvey explores the pivotal role of cities in political revolutions and social change. From Johannesburg to Mumbai, and New York City to Sao Paulo, Harvey delves into the struggle over who has the right to the city and how it should be organized. He argues that cities can become the focus for anti-capitalist resistance and be reorganized in more socially just and ecologically sane ways. This thought-provoking book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the power dynamics of urban spaces and the potential for transformative change. Recommended for urban planners, activists, and anyone interested in the intersection of politics, economics, and urban life. Rebel Cities provides a critical analysis of the role of cities in shaping political and social change. It is relevant to a wide range of fields of study, including sociology, political science, geography, and environmental studies. The book also speaks to the interests of those concerned with issues of social justice, inequality, and the environment. Harvey's insights into the potential for anti-capitalist resistance in urban spaces make this book a compelling read for anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of power and social change in our modern world.

Are you interested in exploring the revolutionary ideas that have shaped our society? Karl Marx, a philosopher and historian, is known for his critical thinking and analysis of the social and economic systems of his time. Through his writings, Marx sought to reform the ruling class and promote communism. By exploring Marx's work, you will gain insight into the political and economic theories that have had a profound impact on the modern world. Additionally, reading and reflecting on Marx's ideas will help you develop critical thinking and analytical skills that can benefit you academically and professionally. Why not take the first step towards discovering these ideas by delving into Marx's seminal work, The Communist Manifesto?

Are you fascinated by the art of negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution? Do you have a passion for international relations and diplomacy? If so, then studying Diplomacy at the undergraduate level may be the perfect fit for you! Diplomacy is an exciting and dynamic field of study that combines elements of politics, law, history, and economics to explore the complex relationships between nations and peoples. It is an interdisciplinary subject that requires students to think critically and creatively about the world around them, and to develop a nuanced understanding of the factors that shape international relations. One of the most appealing aspects of studying Diplomacy is the opportunity to engage with real-life examples of successful diplomacy in action. From the historic Camp David Accords to the recent Iran Nuclear Deal, Diplomacy has played a pivotal role in shaping the course of world events. By studying Diplomacy, you will gain a deep appreciation for the power of negotiation and the importance of building strong relationships between nations. At the undergraduate level, typical majors and modules in Diplomacy include International Relations, Political Science, and Conflict Resolution. These courses will provide you with a broad foundation in the principles and practices of Diplomacy, as well as the skills and knowledge needed to pursue further specialisation in areas such as International Law, Human Rights, or Environmental Diplomacy. The potential career paths for graduates in Diplomacy are varied and exciting. Many graduates go on to work in government agencies, international organisations, or non-governmental organisations, where they play a vital role in shaping foreign policy and promoting peace and stability around the world. Other popular career paths include journalism, law, and business, where a deep understanding of international relations and diplomacy is highly valued. To succeed in the field of Diplomacy, it is important to have strong communication skills, an analytical mind, and a deep curiosity about the world around you. You should also have a passion for learning, a willingness to work hard, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the world. Some notable employers in the field of Diplomacy include the United Nations, the World Bank, and the International Red Cross. Whether you are interested in working in the public or private sector, there are countless opportunities available for graduates in Diplomacy. So if you are ready to embark on an exciting and rewarding journey of discovery, consider studying Diplomacy at the undergraduate level. With its unique blend of theory and practice, and its focus on building strong relationships between nations, Diplomacy is the perfect field of study for those who want to make a difference in the world.

In "The Republic," Plato takes us on a journey through a dialogue between Socrates and three individuals, exploring the idea of the perfect community and the ideal individual within it. Through their conversation, they delve into questions of reality, knowledge, and goodness, while also tackling the role of education and gender in society. With the use of allegory, Plato masterfully depicts a state governed by philosopher kings and bound by harmony. This classic text is a must-read for anyone interested in philosophy, politics, and society's role in shaping individuals. Recommended for anyone interested in philosophy, politics, or sociology, "The Republic" is a timeless classic that explores the idea of a perfect community and the ideal individual within it. With its thought-provoking discussions on the nature of reality, knowledge, and goodness, this book is sure to appeal to students of philosophy, while its exploration of education and gender roles in society makes it relevant to those studying sociology. Additionally, the book's insights into politics and the role of government are sure to appeal to anyone interested in political science. Overall, "The Republic" is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of society and the human experience.

The pandemic has exposed the flaws in America's social contract and its ability to protect all citizens. Political philosopher Danielle S. Allen calls for a deeper understanding of the responsibilities of public decision-makers and citizens to repair the broken contract and build pandemic resilience and justice through good governance and strong bonds of solidarity.

Can political discourse survive the culture wars? Philosopher Agnes Callard explores how Socratic politics can depoliticize arguments and free our speech. Discover the dangers of self-politicization and the tragedy of those who lack the freedom to inquire. Learn how to distinguish between coercive and illuminating persuasion and why not bullying is harder than it appears. Join the conversation on how we can best live together in a politically charged climate.

Individualism is a double-edged sword that has shaped Western civilization, but also led to the decline of communities . The concept of personal autonomy became the central value of Western society, leading to the principles of one person one vote, civil liberties, and equal rights for all. However, this development has gone hand in hand with the decline of interdependence and solidarity. In other cultures, communal values have traditionally taken precedence, where who you are cannot be separated from the groups you belong to. The benefits of individualism are praised and celebrated when it allows you to be yourself while also being part of society and contributing to it. As a high school student, understanding the balance between individualism and community can help you navigate and understand the world around you, while also allowing you to develop your own identity and contribute positively to society.

In a world of chaos and violence, how can we prevent ourselves from descending into anarchy? Thomas Hobbes' Leviathan explores this timeless question, arguing for a powerful sovereign to enforce security and the rule of law. Shocking his contemporaries, Hobbes' work of political philosophy opened up questions about statecraft and society that still influence governments worldwide. This fully revised edition includes a new introduction, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the nature of power and governance. Recommended for political science students, policymakers, and anyone interested in the nature of power and governance, Thomas Hobbes' Leviathan offers a thought-provoking analysis of the role of the state in preventing anarchy. Its insights into the nature of society and the need for a powerful sovereign to enforce security and the rule of law have influenced governments worldwide. This book also has relevance to those interested in philosophy, history, and law, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of statecraft.

Christopher Hitchens, one of the most incisive minds of our time, meets George Orwell in this thought-provoking essay, where he assesses the life, achievements, and myth of the great political writer. Hitchens examines Orwell's perspectives on fascism, empire, feminism, and Englishness, as well as his outlook on America. Whether thinking about empires or dictators, race or class, nationalism or popular culture, Orwell's moral outlook remains indispensable in a world that has undergone vast changes in the fifty years since his death. This book is a tightly woven and subtle argument that addresses not only why Orwell matters today but how he will continue to matter in a future, uncertain world. Recommended for history buffs, political science students, and anyone interested in the power of language and the role of the writer in society. This book offers a unique perspective on the life and work of George Orwell, one of the most influential writers of the 20th century. Christopher Hitchens' essay is a thought-provoking analysis of Orwell's moral outlook and his perspectives on fascism, empire, feminism, and Englishness, as well as his outlook on America. It is a must-read for those who want to understand the influence of Orwell's writing on our modern world and how his ideas continue to shape our understanding of politics, culture, and society.

Are you curious about the secrets behind the selection of a country's capital city? It's not just about being the largest or most famous city. In fact, there are many factors to consider such as geography, politics, and culture. The capital city is an essential symbol of a country's identity and unity. Exploring the selection process of capitals, you will learn about history, geography, politics, and society. Understanding these concepts will help you become a more informed global citizen, and develop skills in critical thinking, research, and analysis. Whether you dream of being a diplomat, historian, or just want to broaden your horizons, learning about the selection of a country's capital city is a great way to start.

The social contract is a concept that has evolved over time and shaped the way that societies have functioned for centuries. This idea is based on the premise that individuals must give up some of their individual rights in exchange for the protection and security provided by a larger governing body. Throughout history, the social contract has been a topic of great debate and discussion. In the 17th century, philosophers such as Thomas Hobbes and John Locke wrote extensively on the social contract, with Hobbes believing that the state should have absolute power over its citizens, and Locke arguing that individuals have natural rights that the state must respect. In modern times, the social contract has been shaped by a number of factors, including globalization, technological advancements, and the rise of multicultural societies. Immanuel Kant, a German philosopher, made significant contributions to the field by arguing that the social contract should be based on universal principles of justice, such as the categorical imperative, which requires individuals to act in ways that can be universally applied. John Rawls, a 20th-century American philosopher, also made important contributions to the social contract. He argued that the social contract should be based on the principles of justice as fairness, which require individuals to treat each other fairly and impartially. Rawls believed that the social contract should be structured in such a way to work to the greatest benefit of the least advantaged members of society. There have been numerous contributions to the field of the social contract by leading academics such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Immanuel Kant, and John Rawls. Each of these thinkers has brought their own unique perspectives and ideas to the table, adding to the rich history of the social contract and shaping the way it is understood and applied today.

Canadian singer, Jully Black, made headlines when she sang her country's national anthem at an NBA all-star game and altered the lyrics from "our home and native land" to "our home on native land" in solidarity with indigenous communities. This small change has sparked a larger conversation about Canada's history of oppression and assimilation of indigenous people, and the need for reconciliation. While some have criticized the change, many have praised it as a model for all Canadians. This issue raises important questions about identity, power, and representation, and highlights the role of music and art in social and political activism.

Travel back in time to the Enlightenment era and discover how European thinkers envisioned the future of their continent. Uncover the thoughts of famous philosophers like Rousseau, Voltaire, and Kant, as well as lesser-known voices, in the new book The Idea of Europe: Enlightenment Perspectives. Immerse yourself in debates on political unity, military power, and trade that still ring true today.

The hasty division of India and Pakistan in 1947 caused one of the largest refugee crises in history and left lasting scars. Learn about the violence and confusion that ensued, and how it still impacts the region today.

Academic concepts like technology, media control, and truth-telling are explored in George Orwell's work, particularly in his novel 1984. Orwell's fascination with technology and its potential is relatable to our own generation's interest in social media and online identity. The novel's portrayal of a state controlling all media and messaging is contrasted with our diverse media landscape today, although some states still try to suppress online speech. Orwell's commitment to truth-telling is a valuable lesson for us today, as we navigate the spread of mistruths and lies on social media. By exploring these academic concepts, we can better understand the role of technology in our lives and the importance of staying vigilant against attempts to control or manipulate information.

Have you ever wondered what life would be like without the state? The idea of living without rulers may seem strange, but it's been done before. Archaeology shows our ancestors lived in peace for thousands of years before armed rulers appeared. Without the state, life would be less complicated, divisive, and confusing. Poverty would be slashed, and enterprise and innovation would flourish without the regulation that favors large corporations. We would do things voluntarily, and our cooperative and charitable nature would flourish. We could even develop a less rigid justice system that benefits from a reduction in crime and fear. The benefits of learning about the state and its role in society are both intellectual and practical. You'll gain a better understanding of the world around you and how it functions. You'll also be equipped with the knowledge to develop structures that self-govern from the bottom up, evolving as times change. So, let's explore the concept of the state together and see how we can thrive without it!