How the World Works

Another politically charged book, this time Noam Chomsky’s How the World Works.  The book discusses Chomsky’s four separate articles/speeches that focus on the US and democracy.  The books focus on US policy decisions during and after WW II through the late 1990s.  Chomsky, a highly critical philosopher, political scientist, and faculty member from MIT, has studied American and world-wide political issues.  Each of the short readings all seem to follow the same message, be distrustful of those in leadership because most politicians work for big business.  His arguments, if grounded in the real data he presents, is not only compelling, but simply put, “we should be doing it!”  Chomsky discusses our alleged “commitment” to democracy and how the vast majority of American voices just don’t understand that they can change the direction of the country by being more vocal.  Chomsky outlines the funding that American leaders have given to corrupt partners in the following countries since WW II: El Salvador; Nicaragua; Panama; Vietnam; Iraq; Somalia; the former republic of Yugoslavia; Israel and Palestine; Japan; India; the Balkans; South Africa; Haiti; Cuba; Mexico; Brazil; Argentina; Chile; Columbia; Guatemala; Pakistan; and Timor (I’m sure I missed a few along the way).  Where hasn’t Chomsky studied?  He also discusses the following issues facing the US: how the Cold War worked for America; Iran/Contra escapade; the war on drugs (why are we so worried about marijuana (it’s making our jails explode); the media (which doesn’t really cover the issues we need them to do, and won’t allow him to share his thoughts); the global economy (GATT and NAFTA disasters for America); the CIA (and what it really focuses on); keeping the rich… rich; healthcare reform (and how we never have gotten to where Canada and most other countries are today); gun control; labor issues/unionization; and campaign finance reform.  Chomsky has a lot to say and he doesn’t seem to have many mainstream friends.  His criticism is jarring and consistent.  He doesn’t trust many in leadership roles and notes that the last President whom we could trust was prior to World War II.  For those studying the current state of the US, this is a must read.  It is a perspective that draws upon data and thoughtful reflection.  I haven’t read many political inquires previously, so I enjoyed it.  I’m surprised that 60 Minutes or other undercover news shows haven’t followed more on Chomsky’s work.