Product Description

Hartmann argues that the middle class is not the natural consequence of a free market based economy, but rather, the intended result of policies put into place to maximize the public good. Unfortunately, he maintains, the American middle class is on its deathbed.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #125171 in Books
• Published on: 2006-09-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 239 pages

From Publishers Weekly
Beginning with the Reagan administration, the U.S. government has steadily instituted policies and legislation that favor corporations over citizens, argues Air America host Hartmann (The Ultimate Sacrifice). Analyzing the rhetoric and policies of the current administration's "compassionate conservatism," Hartmann goes on to detail the ways in which safety nets for working people (from progressive taxation to antitrust legislation to Social Security) have been steadily weakened, and argues that an empowered, educated middle class is crucial to a functioning democracy. Chapters detail the ways in which what gets called "the free market" is not really free (for good reason, he notes), how "We the People create the middle class," how the policies of the Founding Fathers and figures like FDR still have a lot to teach us, and ways for "Leveling the Playing Field." Though far from comprehensive, and despite its sensationalist title, Hartmann's latest is an intelligent critique of the contemporary plight of the middle class.
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

From AudioFile
Starting with Ronald Reagan and accelerating under George W. Bush, American policy makers have waged an assault on the middle class, the very foundation of American democracy, as seen by the Founding Fathers. Hartmann's book chronicles this assault and suggests actions people can take to end it. Anthony Heald is perfect as the narrator. His voice is steady as he discusses economic theory, delivering key concepts clearly and often slowing his pace so listeners can absorb the points. But he lets the emotion in his tone rise as he reads about inequities. When the author points out obvious irrationalities, Heald adopts a tone of incredulity. It could have resulted in caricature, but Heald adopts just the right level, which nicely fits the material. R.C.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine

Customer Reviews

Thom provides a readable explanation of a complex subject, so timely in today's economic climate
Thom reveals the history of this country and how our economy has devolved away from the intentions of the founders. He explains how democracy is dependent on a strong middle class and that the founders created it to prevent the moneyed and powerful from controlling government. The book was an eye opener, illuminating, exciting, and empowering. Very easy reading. This is particularly important given our current economic crisis. It provides context for a productive society and hope for changes. We can do better...other countries are already there.

Hartmann is Brilliant
Thom Hartmann's Screwed is must reading by everyone who isn't a right wing nut. In easy to understand language, Hartmann debunks right wing myths about Liberals and progressives using facts and history, not emotional mantra.
He's on Sirius Radio each day, and he'll take on any Neo-con and every issue and argue intelligently for the need for liberal/progressive politics in America, and he shows the historical and constitutional basis for all his agrguments. All of his works are a must read. I give this book to all my Independent and moderate Republican friends( see I'm a Liberal, very tolerant).

Absolute must read
If you have any care at all about your finacial wellbeing in this country
you must read this book. Few people are old enough to know what it was like in the usa when one person working one job made enough to buy a house and raise a family. health care was very affordable for all.
Where did it all go? This book tells you.