Crack-Up Capitalism: Market Radicals and the Dream of a World Without Democracy

In his book "Crack-Up Capitalism," Quinn Slobodian explores the rise of new legal entities such as tax havens, free ports, city-states, gated enclaves, and special economic zones that have emerged as a result of globalization. He follows the most notorious radical libertarians around the globe as they search for the perfect home for their free market fantasy, charting the quest for a blank slate where capitalism and democracy can be uncoupled.

Format: Hardback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2023
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

In his captivating book, "Crack-Up Capitalism," historian Quinn Slobodian takes readers on a fascinating journey through time, exploring the global landscape and the rise of radical libertarians. These individuals, influenced by figures such as Milton Friedman and Peter Thiel, are on a quest to create a perfect home for their free market fantasy, free from the constraints of democratic government and oversight.

The book takes readers from Hong Kong in the 1970s to South Africa in the late days of apartheid, from the neo-Confederate South to the medieval City of London, and even into the world's oceans and war zones. Through this sweeping narrative, Slobodian reveals the relentless pursuit of a blank slate where capitalism and democracy can be finally uncoupled.

"Crack-Up Capitalism" is not just a history book; it is also a warning about the near future. Slobodian paints a disturbing picture of a world where the rules of the game have been rigged in favor of a select few, leaving the majority of people behind. He argues that the current system of globalization has led to an explosion of new legal entities, such as tax havens, free ports, city-states, gated enclaves, and special economic zones, which are free from ordinary forms of regulation, taxation, and mutual obligation.

These new spaces have given rise to ultracapitalists who believe that they can escape the bonds of democratic government and oversight altogether. They seek to create a world where they can operate with impunity, free from the constraints of social responsibility and environmental protection.

Slobodian's book is a powerful indictment of the current system of capitalism and a call to action. He challenges readers to think critically about the world around them and to consider alternative systems that can promote economic growth and social justice. He argues that the pursuit of a free market fantasy is not sustainable in the long term and that we need to move towards a more equitable and sustainable system that balances the interests of all stakeholders.

"Crack-Up Capitalism" is a must-read for anyone who is interested in understanding the current state of the world and the challenges we face in the future. It is a thought-provoking and informative book that will leave readers feeling inspired and empowered to make a difference in the world.

Weight: 564g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241460245