We Own the Future: Democratic Socialism—American Style[em] [/em]

This spirited and intellectually rigorous essay collection edited by three writers connected with Dissent magazine examines what socialism has already done for America, and where it could take the country in the future. Economics scholar Darrick Hamilton argues that a federal job guarantee and reparations will level the playing field for racial minorities. Author and environmental activist Naomi Klein (On Fire) astutely illustrates the link between capitalism and climate change, arguing that the Green New Deal is a “potential lifeline that we all have a sacred and moral responsibility to reach for.” Three labor experts jointly examine the “growing public support for unions” in the context of Occupy Wall Street and recent teacher strikes. Labor activist Bill Fletcher explains how socialists, once elected, can govern effectively when confronted with “Republican obstructionism,” while University of Pennsylvania sociology professor Dorothy Roberts (Killing the Black Body) asserts that universal healthcare will require a mechanism to combat the disparities in treatment between white patients and patients of color. Amid a spate of recent books about the mainstreaming of democratic socialism in America, this volume stands out for its multivoiced approach and the depth of its analysis. Liberal organizers and activists, and those seeking an education on current trends in left-wing politics, should consider this a must-read. Agent: Sandra Dijkstra, Sandra Dijkstra Literary Agency. (Jan.)