Understanding Capitalism

"Why does capitalism fail us?" Richard D. Wolff walks readers through this pressing question in a brilliant takedown of an economic system that benefits the few at the great expense of the many.

Understanding Capitalism explores the different definitions of what capitalism is and is not, and dissolves the many myths that, Wolff argues, are designed to confuse and disorient us. Wolff doesn't simply identify the crises and harms manufactured by capitalism, he details a path forward by outlining alternative economic models that combat the exploitation and oppression inherent in capitalism.

Capitalism oftentimes feels as permanent as the sky above. Understanding Capitalism shows that our current economic system is only as strong as the ordinary people who enable its existence, and that capitalism's demise requires an organized, collective effort by those who can identify its vulnerabilities and limitations, but also understand that another world is indeed possible.

List of contents

Introduction

How to Read This Book

1. Defining Capitalism: What It Is

2. Defining Capitalism: What It Is Not

3. The Problems of Capitalism

4. The Myths of Capitalism

5. The Relationships of Capitalism

6. Capitalism and You

7. What Comes After Capitalism

About the author

Richard D. Wolff is professor of economics emeritus, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and a visiting professor at the New School University in New York. Wolff hosts the weekly hour-long radio program Economic Update, which is syndicated on public radio stations nationwide.

Product details

• Authors: Wolff Richard D.
• Publisher: Ingram Publishers Services
• Languages: English
• Product format: Hardback
• Release: 09.12.2025
• EAN: 9798888905012
• ISBN: 979-8-88890-501-2
• Illustrations: Illustrationen, nicht spezifiziert
• Subjects: Social sciences, law, business > Political science > Political science and political education; POLITICAL SCIENCE / Political Economy, BUSINESS & ECONOMICS / Economics / Theory, Economic theory & philosophy, Political Economy, Far-left political ideologies and movements, Social classes, SOCIAL SCIENCE / Social Classes & Economic Disparity, Socialism & left-of-centre democratic ideologies, Left-of-centre democratic ideologies, Marxism & Communism, Economic theory and philosophy