Best Political Economy Books of 2025

The End of the World Is Just the Beginning by Peter Zeihan is a New York Times Bestseller that maps out the collapse of globalization and the next world. Zeihan suggests that countries or regions will have no choice but to make their own goods, grow their own food, secure their own energy, fight their own battles, and do it all with populations that are both shrinking and aging. This book is an illuminating and a bit terrifying ride, packed with foresight, wit, and Zeihan's trademark irreverence. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of our interconnected world.

It's OK to Be Angry About Capitalism by Bernie Sanders is a New York Times bestseller that reflects on the current state of capitalism in America. The book argues that the system is fueled by uncontrolled greed, prioritizing corporate profits over the needs of ordinary Americans. Sanders advocates for fundamental economic and political change, where economic rights are recognized as human rights. This book presents a vision that extends beyond the promises of past campaigns, revealing what would be possible if the political revolution took place. It's a thought-provoking read that challenges readers to question the systems that have failed us and demand change.

"180 Degrees: Unlearn The Lies You've Been Taught To Believe" is a thought-provoking book that encourages readers to question their beliefs and look at the world from a different perspective. The author argues that the world is not as it seems and challenges readers to unlearn the lies they have been taught. The book offers a total perspective and a set of solutions to help readers get back to the truth. This book is a must-read for those who want to understand the economic conditions of the world and the role of beliefs in shaping them. The book is unique in its approach and offers a fresh perspective that is sure to leave readers questioning everything they thought they knew."

The book "Plunder: Private Equity's Plan to Pillage America" by Brendan Ballou is an eye-opening exposé of the private equity industry. Ballou explains how private equity firms reshaped American businesses by raising prices, reducing quality, cutting jobs, and shifting resources from productive to unproductive parts of the economy. The author also sheds light on how the government actively supports this industry. However, Ballou offers a practical plan for reining in this monstrous new centerpiece of our system. Overall, "Plunder" is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding how private equity operates and its impact on American businesses and communities.

The fifth edition of Basic Economics by Thomas Sowell is a comprehensive guide to understanding economic systems. The author explains complex principles in a straightforward and engaging manner, making it accessible to both laypeople and experts. The book covers a wide range of topics, from rent control to international balance of payments, and includes a new chapter on the reasons for wealth and income inequality between nations. Sowell's smooth writing, deep knowledge, and flawless logic make each page an explanatory treat. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand how the laws of economics govern our world.

Discrimination and Disparities by Thomas Sowell examines the origins of economic disparities and challenges the idea that different economic outcomes can be explained by any one factor, be it discrimination, exploitation, or genetics. The book analyzes the human consequences of prevailing social visions of these disparities and the policies based on that vision. The author presents a well-researched and thought-provoking argument that is both accessible and relevant. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex issues surrounding economic disparities.

Economic Facts and Fallacies, 2nd edition by Thomas Sowell is an essential read for anyone interested in economics. The book debunks popular economic fallacies disseminated by the media and politicians, such as mistaken ideas about income differences, male-female economic differences, and fallacies about Third World countries. Sowell’s writing style is easy to follow and provides real-world examples to explain complex issues. The book’s theme of challenging fallacies that have a certain plausibility is both necessary and important. Overall, Economic Facts and Fallacies is a thought-provoking and informative read that challenges readers to examine their beliefs about economics.

The Decisive Decade by Dr. Jonathan D.T. Ward provides a comprehensive framework for the United States to defeat China on the world stage. The book offers practical strategies in the economic, diplomatic, military, and ideological arenas that can be utilized by the government, businesses, and citizens. Ward's expert analysis of the history of US-China relations and insight into the Russia-Ukrainian war make this book unique. The book is cautionary and optimistic, showing a path for America and the Free World to win the contest with China. Overall, it is a must-read for anyone interested in international diplomacy and the future of global power.

How to Blow Up a Pipeline by Andreas Malm is a lyrical manifesto that makes an impassioned call for the climate movement to escalate its tactics in the face of ecological collapse. The author argues that we need to force fossil fuel extraction to stop, even if it means defusing and destroying its tools. Malm offers an incisive discussion of the politics and ethics of pacifism and violence, democracy and social change, strategy and tactics, and a movement compelled by both the heart and the mind. This book is a powerful sketch of a political theory for a time of climate change.

The book "Power and Progress: Our Thousand-Year Struggle Over Technology and Prosperity" by Acemoglu and Johnson is a fascinating exploration of how technology shapes our society and economy. The authors argue that progress depends on how we choose to use technology, and that it can either lead to widespread prosperity or serve the interests of a privileged few. They show how technology has been used to benefit elites throughout history, but also provide a vision for how it can be harnessed for the greater good. Overall, this book offers a thought-provoking analysis of the intersection of technology and economics that is both insightful and inspiring.