A People’s Guide to Capitalism by Hadas Thier has garnered significant attention for its accessible and insightful explanation of Marxist economics, particularly in the face of growing economic instability and inequality. This review synthesizes expert opinions on the book, highlighting its strengths and relevance for both seasoned Marxists and those new to the subject.
Sarah Leonard from The Nation emphasizes the book’s power to make Marxist economics “usable by the people most threatened by capitalism,” stripping away jargon and making Marx’s essential work accessible to today’s diverse mass movements.
Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor, author of From #BlackLivesMatter to Black Liberation, points out the book’s timely arrival during a period of financial and public health crises. She praises Thier’s ability to “clearly explain why the poor and working class always bear the brunt of capitalism’s crises” using “lucid and accessible prose.” Taylor suggests that A People’s Guide will be crucial for understanding the root causes of financial crises that shape contemporary struggles.
Bhaskar Sunkara, founding editor of Jacobin, underscores the tendency of economists to “mystify their craft.” He commends A People’s Guide to Capitalism as “a thorough and accessible corrective” and “an important primer for generations of activists.”
David McNally, a Cullen Distinguished Professor of History and Business at the University of Houston, hails the book as “a breath of fresh air on the left.” He highlights its avoidance of “obscure jargon” and its provision of “a rich, accessible introduction to how capitalism works.” McNally also notes how Thier combines theoretical explanation with contemporary examples, reminding readers of the urgent need for alternatives to a crisis-ridden system.
Rob Larson, Economics professor and author of Bit Tyrants: The Political Economy of Silicon Valley, notes that the book offers a “brisk and manageable introduction” to radical ideas during times of economic instability, pandemics, and rising fascism. He appreciates its playful approach and suitability for “proletarian chain-breaking.”
Michael Roberts, author of The Long Depression: Marxism and the Global Crisis of Capitalism, praises Thier’s ability to explain complex ideas in a simple and clear manner, a skill he finds lacking in many. He believes she has “delivered a clear, straightforward and entertaining explanation of all Marx’s basic theoretical insights into the nature and development of capitalism.” Roberts emphasizes the book’s use of modern examples to illustrate the clinical analysis of Marxist political economy.
Daniel Saunders of Bias Magazine emphasizes that “Thier’s book is a valuable introduction to Marxist concepts which helps us to see how Marxism can be used to deepen our knowledge of capitalism, beyond the level of mere appearance.”
Steve Leigh of New Politics concludes that “A People’s Guide to Capitalism is a tremendous contribution to the understanding of economics today.” He recommends it to both veteran Marxists and newcomers, suggesting that “everyone interested in this topic, and indeed anyone interested in fundamentally changing the world, should read this book.”
In conclusion, A People’s Guide to Capitalism stands out as a highly recommended resource for anyone seeking a clear and accessible understanding of Marxist economics. Its ability to demystify complex concepts and connect them to contemporary issues makes it a valuable tool for activists, students, and anyone interested in exploring alternatives to the current capitalist system.
