Cost of Free Shipping: Amazon in the Global Economy

Amazon is the most powerful corporation on the planet, with CEO Jeff Bezos becoming the richest person in history. Its dominance has reshaped the global economy, resulting in one-click instant consumerism, weakened unions, lowered labor standards, and the largest provider of cloud-computing services and home surveillance systems. This book looks at the many dark facets of the corporation, including automation, surveillance, tech work, workers' struggles, algorithmic challenges, and the disruption of local democracy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 20 September 2020
Publisher: Pluto Press

Amazon, the most powerful corporation on the planet, has achieved remarkable success under the leadership of CEO Jeff Bezos. His remarkable wealth has made him one of the richest individuals in history, and his company has emerged as a major beneficiary of the global pandemic. Amazon's dominance has reshaped the global economy, giving rise to a new era known as "Amazon Capitalism."

One-click instant consumerism and the vast array of products available on Amazon have made it a household name worldwide. Over 60% of US households subscribe to Amazon Prime, further cementing the corporation's hold on the market. However, this subscription comes with a cost, as Amazon is known for its surveillance practices, monitoring its subscribers' activities.

In addition to its retail operations, Amazon is also a major player in logistics, which has led to weakened unions and lower labor standards. The company has expanded into cloud computing services, home surveillance systems, and the ubiquitous Alexa virtual assistant. With its cutting-edge analyses, this book delves into the many dark facets of Amazon, including automation, surveillance, tech work, workers' struggles, algorithmic challenges, and the disruption of local democracy.

The Cost of Free Shipping sheds light on how Amazon represents a fundamental shift in global capitalism that requires our attention and resistance. It serves as a call to action for individuals and organizations to critically examine the impact of Amazon on society and the economy and to work towards creating a more equitable and sustainable future.

Weight: 344g
Dimension: 178 x 214 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780745341484