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Bradley Vee's avatar

Does the book only tackle economics, or does it treat all aspects of life? Interest piqued.

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A.P. Murphy's avatar

I'd say it's an all-rounder, attempting to fold in all kinds of sociology, literary criticism, art history as well as politics. In actual fact there's not so much economics in it, that reflects my own bias more than anything. The New Yorker piece linked above is a fair intro to the whole thing. If you can't find it you know where to ask.

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Bradley Vee's avatar

Lol. I like your throwing shade at patriotism. Double-lol! How many things do we strive for, unknowingly to our own detriment? So interesting. You just cracked my head wide open. This Cruel Optimism peppers everything we do.

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A.P. Murphy's avatar

Ain't me doing the cracking, big boy. Thank Ms Berlant here for exposing your synapses to this great stuff - not least of which is the reference to the Johnson story. A true belter IMO.

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