Rentier Capitalism and Its Discontents: Power, Morality and Resistance in Central Asia

This book explores the economic, political, social, and ecological crises in Central Asia through the lens of rentier capitalism and grassroots countermovements. It provides insights into the mechanisms of rent extraction, moral justifications, and social struggles against them, highlighting the importance of class relations, state-countermovement interactions, and global capitalism in understanding social and economic dynamics in the region.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 321 pages
Publication date: 02 September 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate web of economic, political, social, and ecological crises that have plagued our world over the past three decades. Through the lens of rentier capitalism and the countermovements in Central Asia, it offers a profound analysis of the underlying factors contributing to these crises. The rich and powerful have, unfortunately, amassed immense wealth and political power, often at the expense of social and environmental well-being. However, their actions have not gone unchallenged. Grassroots activism has emerged as a powerful force, resisting the harmful and damaging effects of the neoliberal commodification of things.

In this book, the authors provide a much-needed theorization of the moral economy and politics of rent, offering in-depth case studies on finance, real estate, and natural resources in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Through their meticulous research, they shed light on the mechanisms of rent extraction, their moral justifications, and the legitimacy they claim. They also document the social struggles against these extractive practices, highlighting the resilience and determination of the affected communities.

What sets this book apart is its recognition of the importance of class relations, state-countermovement interactions, and global capitalism in understanding the social and economic dynamics of Central Asia. The authors draw upon a wealth of empirical evidence and theoretical insights to paint a vivid picture of the complex interplay between these factors and their impact on the region. This book will be of immense value to students and researchers interested in political economy, development studies, sociology, politics, and international relations. It offers a comprehensive and insightful perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing Central Asia and beyond.

In conclusion, this book is a crucial contribution to our understanding of the global crises we face today. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the factors contributing to these crises and offers practical solutions for building a more equitable and sustainable world. By examining the experiences of Central Asia, it sheds light on the potential for transformative change and the power of grassroots activism in driving social and economic progress.

Weight: 457g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030763053
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021