72 pages • 2 hours read
Naomi KleinThe Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2007A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism by Naomi Klein critiques neoliberalism, arguing that free-market policies, particularly those popularized by economist Milton Friedman, are often advanced without democratic consent through "shock therapy"—a strategy where crises are exploited to implement unpopular legislation. Klein examines this in the context of geopolitical events such as the Iraq War, showing how crises like 9/11 facilitated these tactics, ultimately benefiting a select few while harming broader society. The book explores the origins of "shock therapy," its historical applications in countries like Chile, South Africa, and during the Iraq invasion, and critiques institutions like the IMF and World Bank for their roles in perpetuating these practices.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Naomi Klein's The Shock Doctrine received praise for its compelling narrative and thorough research, exposing the dark side of global capitalism. Critics lauded her persuasive argument and detailed anecdotes but noted occasional overreach in linking unrelated events. Some found the tone overly alarmist. Overall, it's recognized as a powerful, thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read The Shock Doctrine?
A reader who would enjoy Naomi Klein's The Shock Doctrine is interested in political science, economics, and social justice. This reader likely appreciates critical analyses of neoliberal policies and their global impact, much like those found in Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Chomsky's Hegemony or Survival.