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Politics Books

Examine the complexities of democracy, policy, and international relations here in our Politics section at Thryft. Whether you’re interested in political theory, governance, or recent political events, we’ve got the titles to quench your curiosity. Engage with works by political scientists, renowned authors, and essential essays that shape today’s political discourse.

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Homo Deus
Yuval Noah Harari | Random House Uk

Homo Deus

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.19

$9.90

60% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by humankind's trajectory and potential, "Homo Deus" is insightful. It's not just a history lesson; it's a forecast that intertwines science, philosophy, and technology to map where we might be headed. Yuval Noah Harari has a knack for distilling complex ideas into digestible narratives. Reading it might change how you see the future, humanity's quest for immortality, and our evolving societal values.
Tribe on Homecoming and Belonging
Sebastian Junger | Fourth Estate

Tribe on Homecoming and Belonging

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.02

$9.90

"Tribe" delves deep into our need for community, offering a profound look at why veterans and civilians alike yearn for the close-knit connections often found in military platoons. It makes a compelling case for the psychological benefits of strong social ties and suggests ways to overcome the isolation of modern society, resonating with anyone searching for a sense of belonging in our often fragmented world.
Fresh Fruit, Broken Bodies: Migrant Farmworkers in the United States
New
Seth Holmes | University Of California Press

Fresh Fruit, Broken Bodies: Migrant Farmworkers in the United States

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.28

$9.90

75% off est. retail
"Fresh Fruit, Broken Bodies" offers more than a glimpse into the sacrifices behind our food sources. If you've ever been moved by tales of resilience in the face of systemic injustices, this book's raw and personal storytelling will leave you with a profound understanding of what it truly means to labor at the very beginning of our food chain. Seth Holmes's commitment extends beyond words, directing all proceeds to support the very communities you'll meet within these pages – a testament that this isn't just a book; it's a call to awareness and action.
Debt: The First 5,000 Years
New
David Graeber | Melville House

Debt: The First 5,000 Years

$18.90

Goodreads rating: 4.21

$18.90

33% off est. retail
If you've ever felt that there's more to our economy than the cash in our wallets, "Debt: The First 5000 Years" could change the way you see the world. David Graeber doesn't just recount history; he digs deep into the roots of our financial systems and societal norms. Pick up this book, and you might find yourself questioning everything you thought you knew about money, power, and ethics. Perfect for someone who loves to explore alternative perspectives on seemingly fixed systems.
Picking off new shoots will not stop the spring: Witness poems and essays from Burma/Myanmar - Thryft
ko ko thett, Brian Haman  | Ethos Books

Picking off new shoots will not stop the spring: Witness poems and essays from Burma/Myanmar

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 4.61

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

83% off est. retail
If the courage of a people amid turmoil speaks to you, "Picking off new shoots will not stop the spring" offers a rare glimpse into that raw spirit. The compilation of poems and essays is not just literature; it's the heartbeat and the battle cry from the very core of Myanmar's struggle for democracy. It's an evocative and visceral anthology that binds the personal to the political, creating a poignant narrative that resonates with the universal quest for freedom and expression.
Race and Ethnicity: Culture, Identity and Representation
Stephen Spencer | Routledge

Race and Ethnicity: Culture, Identity and Representation

$35.90 $11.90 67% off

Goodreads rating: 3.38

$35.90 $11.90 67% off

89% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by how race and ethnicity shape societies worldwide, Stephen Spencer's work could be quite enlightening. Its up-to-date, nuanced perspectives, supplemented with case studies, will deepen your understanding beyond the basics, turning every page into a stimulating conversation about cultural and national identity in today's world.
Orientalism: Western Concepts of the Orient
Edward W. Said | Penguin

Orientalism: Western Concepts of the Orient

$24.90

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$24.90

If you're intrigued by how the East is perceived through Western lens, "Orientalism" by Edward Said is a crucial read. Said's meticulous dissection of Western stereotypes reshapes our understanding of cultural identity and power dynamics. It's a landmark critique that will illuminate and challenge the way you think about cultural representation.
The Sacred Cow and the Abominable Pig: Riddles of Food and Culture
Marvin Harris | Touchstone Books

The Sacred Cow and the Abominable Pig: Riddles of Food and Culture

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$10.90

If you've ever marveled at how societies decide what's delicious and what's off-limits, "The Sacred Cow and the Abominable Pig" offers fascinating insights. Marvin Harris delves into the anthropology of food, revealing the complexities behind dietary choices across cultures. From sacred animals to forbidden meats, this book will expand your understanding of food's role in identity and tradition, making you rethink your next meal.
Development and Social Change: A Global Perspective
New
Philip McMichael | Sage Publications, Inc

Development and Social Change: A Global Perspective

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.99

$13.90

80% off est. retail
Development and Social Change: A Global Perspective is a great read for those who seek an in-depth understanding of globalization and its impacts. It provides a world-historical, political, and ecological perspective to situate globalization in the declining fortunes of the postwar development project. The book emphasizes resistance and social movements as actors shaping the meaning and direction of these projects, in addition to building alternatives. The case studies make the intricacies of globalization concrete, meaningful, and clear for students. The book challenges readers to recognize themselves as global citizens whose consumption decisions have real social and ecological implications.
Golden Dragon and Purple Phoenix: The Chinese and Their Multi-Ethnic Descendants in Southeast Asia
Lee Khoon Choy | World Scientific Publishing Company Pte. Ltd.

Golden Dragon and Purple Phoenix: The Chinese and Their Multi-Ethnic Descendants in Southeast Asia

$92.90 $85.14 8% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$92.90 $85.14 8% off

77% off est. retail
"Golden Dragon and Purple Phoenix" isn't just a historical account; it's a deep dive into the rich tapestry of multi-ethnic descendants in Southeast Asia, with personal narratives that may resonate with your interest in diverse cultures and history. Lee Khoon Choy’s firsthand experiences as a politician, diplomat, and journalist lend authenticity to each story. This book is a window into how Chinese immigrants and their progeny have shaped, and been shaped by, the lands they inhabit.
Aceh: A New Dawn
Aris Ananta, Lee Poh Onn  | Institut Of Southeast Asian Studies

Aceh: A New Dawn

$25.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$25.90

If you're intrigued by stories of human resilience and the tremulous path to restoration after a disaster, "Aceh: A New Dawn" could resonate with you. It's an insightful examination of Aceh's community as they rebuild after the 2004 tsunami—a testament to the unyielding human spirit. This book might offer not just a glimpse into the socio-economic aftermath but also the indomitable will to forge a new future.
Indian Renaissance: India's Rise After a Thousand Years of Decline
Sanjeev Sanyal | Penguin Books India

Indian Renaissance: India's Rise After a Thousand Years of Decline

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 3.98

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

86% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the evolution of nations, particularly India's transformation from a land once subjugated to an emerging global power, then Sanjeev Sanyal's "Indian Renaissance" could offer you a profound glimpse into this journey. It's more than history; it's an exploration of India's socio-economic resurgence, making it essential for anyone interested in understanding the current Indian zeitgeist.
A Forum On "The Role Of Culture In Industrial Asia--The Relationship Between Confucian Ethics And Modernisation" - Thryft

A Forum On "The Role Of Culture In Industrial Asia--The Relationship Between Confucian Ethics And Modernisation"

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

$4.90 $3.90 20% off

This book offers unique insights into the cultural and philosophical roots of Asia's rapid industrialization and modernization. It explores the influence of Confucian ethics on the region's economic and social development. Recommended for those interested in the intersection of culture and economics in Asia.
Cambodian Culture Since 1975: Homeland and Exile
Carol A. Mortland, May Mayko Ebihara, Judy Ledgerwood  | Cornell University Press

Cambodian Culture Since 1975: Homeland and Exile

$24.90

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$24.90

65% off est. retail
If you're drawn to exploring the rich tapestry of cultural revival and transformation, this book promises a deep dive into Cambodian culture as it has evolved since the changes of 1975. It's poignant in its examination of traditional arts, religion, and the diaspora's efforts to maintain and adapt heritage in foreign lands. For anyone interested in the intersection of history, culture, and resilience, this compilation of essays offers enlightening perspectives that contribute to a broader understanding of a nation rebuilding its identity.
Language and Solitude: Wittgenstein, Malinowski and the Habsburg Dilemma
David Gellner, Ernest Gellner, Steven Lukes  | Cambridge University Press

Language and Solitude: Wittgenstein, Malinowski and the Habsburg Dilemma

$27.90

Goodreads rating: 3.92

$27.90

58% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intellectual legacies shaped by historical contexts, Gellner's "Language and Solitude" offers a compelling narrative. It might be an enriching read for you, as it delves into how the Habsburg Empire's cultural milieu influenced two prominent thinkers' views on language and society. This synthesis of philosophy and anthropology could broaden your understanding of ideas that transcend their time and place.
Colonial and Post-Colonial Geographies of India
Stuart Corbridge, M. Satish Kumar, Saraswati Raju  | Sage Publications Pvt. Ltd

Colonial and Post-Colonial Geographies of India

$14.90

Goodreads rating: 2.0

$14.90

90% off est. retail
If you're looking to deepen your understanding of India beyond the typical historical account, "Colonial and Post-Colonial Geographies of India" is a compelling choice. The collection of essays from a diverse set of scholars will enrich your perspective on India's geographical history. It will challenge you to consider the spatial dimensions of the colonial and postcolonial narratives that have shaped the nation. Ideal for those involved in academia or anyone passionate about the interplay between geography, history, and societal development.
Genuine Cheap Chinese ethnic and religious (W1)(Chinese Edition) - Thryft
Zheng Qian | China Intercontinental Press

Genuine Cheap Chinese ethnic and religious (W1)(Chinese Edition)

$24.90 $6.90 72% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$24.90 $6.90 72% off

Preface Nationality or Ethnic Group The Pattern of Diversity in Unity of the Chinese Nation The Overall Situation of Ethnic Minority Populations in China Regional Ethnic Autonomy in China China s Ethnic Minority Culiture as Well as Its Protection and Evelopment The Economy of Ethnic Minorites in China Religious Beliefs of Chinese People
China Safari, International Edition: On the Trail of Beijing's Expansion in Africa - Thryft
Serge Michel, Michel Beuret  | Nation Books

China Safari, International Edition: On the Trail of Beijing's Expansion in Africa

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 3.77

$10.90 $3.90 64% off

If you're curious about international relations and current geopolitical shifts, "China Safari" is an eye-opener. It delves into how China's quest for resources and influence is reshaping Africa, offering a ground-level view of this complex intercontinental relationship. It's insightful for anyone interested in the global balance of power and Sino-African dynamics.
Frontier Livelihoods: Hmong in the Sino-Vietnamese Borderlands
Sarah Turner, Christine Bonnin, Jean Michaud  | University Of Washington Press

Frontier Livelihoods: Hmong in the Sino-Vietnamese Borderlands

$47.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$47.90

73% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the complexities of how ethnic communities adapt to state policies and global market forces in varied political landscapes, "Frontier Livelihoods" could be an enlightening read. This ethnography delivers a nuanced look at the Hmong in Sino-Vietnamese borderlands, offering a compelling case for transnational studies over country-centric research. It's an in-depth exploration of resilience and agency among communities that navigate the challenges of development and modernization on their own terms.
Behind the Veil of Vice: The Business and Culture of Sex in the Middle East
John R. Bradley | St. Martin's Griffin

Behind the Veil of Vice: The Business and Culture of Sex in the Middle East

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.29

$11.90

59% off est. retail
This book is for those looking to understand the complexities of Middle Eastern society beyond the headlines. Bradley's exploration is both daring and enlightening, pulling back the curtain on a taboo subject to reveal a cultural landscape that many readers may find surprising and thought-provoking. It's a deep dive into a world that is rarely discussed openly, offering valuable insights into the social fabric of these regions.
Lexus and the Olive Tree
New
Thomas L. Friedman | Harpercollins

Lexus and the Olive Tree

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 3.61

$8.26

71% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by how interconnected our world has become, Thomas L. Friedman's 'LEXUS AND THE OLIVE TREE' is a must-read. You'll find yourself immersed in a journey through globalization's profound impacts on societies and economies. It's a well-rounded exploration that's just as informative for the financial analyst as it is for the curious layperson—this book lays out the nuts and bolts of our global system, making sense of the complexities that shape our contemporary lives.
Vientiane: Transformations of a Lao Landscape
William Logan, Marc Askew, Colin Long  | Routledge/taylor & Francis Group

Vientiane: Transformations of a Lao Landscape

$70.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$70.90

If you're intrigued by cities with layers of untold stories, "Vientiane: Transformations of a Lao landscape" offers a rare glimpse into the dynamic past and present of Laos' capital. It's an enlightening deep dive for anyone looking to understand the interplay between a city's architecture, its geopolitical significance, and the cultural identity of its people, far beyond the usual rural depictions of Laos. This book invites readers to explore urban narratives often left on the margins.
The History of White People
New
Nell Irvin Painter | W. W. Norton & Company

The History of White People

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$8.90

82% off est. retail
Dive into "The History of White People" for a profound exploration beyond the often-frontlined stories of racial minorities. Nell Irvin Painter's work challenges readers to confront the socio-historical constructs of race and whiteness, making it a crucial read for anyone interested in understanding the deep-seated roots and impacts of racial concepts on Western civilization. It's a history buff's treasure and a thought-provoker for the socially conscious.
Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities
Sold out
Ooi Giok Ling | Institute Of Southeast Asian S

Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.5

$11.90

If you're fascinated by urban development and the complexities of city life in the dynamic context of Southeast Asia, "Housing in Southeast Asian Capital Cities" could be a thought-provoking read. It delves into the heart of critical issues affecting burgeoning metropolises, offering a blend of scholarly insight and real-world case studies that could widen your understanding of urban planning struggles and progress in this vibrant region.
Market Society: Markets and Modern Social Theory
Sold out
Don Slater, Fran Tonkiss  | Polity

Market Society: Markets and Modern Social Theory

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$13.90

60% off est. retail
If you're keen on understanding how markets shape and are shaped by society, "Market Society" could be the book for you. It's not just about economics; it's a broader take on how markets integrate with social actions and relationships. Plus, it's designed to be accessible, so you don't need to be an academic to digest its insights about the intersection of markets with culture and politics.
Food, Society, and Environment
Sold out
Charles L. Harper, Bryan F. Lebeau  | Prentice Hall

Food, Society, and Environment

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$8.90

If you're curious about the intersection of our eating habits with societal shifts and environmental sustainability, "Food, Society, and Environment" might just feed your curiosity. It's not just a narrative of food through the ages - it's an insightful dissection of how our plates reflect and affect the world we live in, from social justice to ecological impacts. For anyone with a hunger for understanding the broader implications of what's on our forks, this book is a hearty meal for thought.
The Origins of Political Order: From Prehuman Times to the French Revolution
Sold out
Francis Fukuyama | Profile Books

The Origins of Political Order: From Prehuman Times to the French Revolution

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.18

$8.90

66% off est. retail
The Origins of Political Order by Francis Fukuyama is an insightful and comprehensive analysis of the development of political systems throughout history. Fukuyama explores the evolution of political systems, tracing the origins of institutions and ideas that shaped society as we know it today. By examining the paths that different societies have taken, this magisterial study provides readers with a better understanding of the origins of political order and how it affects society today. Readers interested in history, politics and anthropology would find this book informative and thought-provoking.
Two Cheers for Anarchism : Six Easy Pieces on Autonomy, Dignity, and Meaningful Work and Play - Thryft
Sold out
James C. Scott | Princeton University Press

Two Cheers for Anarchism : Six Easy Pieces on Autonomy, Dignity, and Meaningful Work and Play

$11.12

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$11.12

71% off est. retail
Two Cheers for Anarchism could be a good read for someone looking to challenge traditional structures of hierarchy. Scott offers a unique perspective on everyday social and political interactions that inspire readers to consider constructive anarchism. The book celebrates the ingenuity and judgement of individuals exercising their creative and moral capacities. Readers will enjoy relatable anecdotes and examples that touch on a wide range of subjects, including globalization, assembly-line production, and historical explanation.
The Fall of Public Man - Thryft
Sold out
Richard Sennett | Gardners Books

The Fall of Public Man

$7.53 $5.27 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$7.53 $5.27 30% off

78% off est. retail
Recommendation: The Fall of Public Man is a thought-provoking analysis of the decline in public life and political involvement in recent decades. Richard Sennett's erudition and historical imagination brilliantly describe the growing imbalance between private and public experience in modern society. This book provides a fascinating perspective on the relationship between public life and the cult of the individual, and argues for a more formal public culture to reconnect with our communities.
Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Survive
Sold out
Jared Diamond | Penguin Books

Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Survive

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$13.90

"Collapse" isn't just about the past; it's a thoughtful exploration of the patterns that have led societies to their zenith and their nadir. You'll be taken on a global tour of history, learning from the lessons etched in the remains of once-great civilizations. As you delve into these narratives, you may find yourself pondering the sustainability of our own society. It's a compelling read for those who enjoy history with a side of existential inquiry.
Albion's Seed : Four British Folkways in America - Thryft
Sold out
David Hackett Fischer | Oxford University Press

Albion's Seed : Four British Folkways in America

$13.10 $7.86 40% off

Goodreads rating: 4.36

$13.10 $7.86 40% off

97% off est. retail
Albion's Seed is a great read for a history enthusiast, particularly those interested in the formation of America's regional cultures. Fischer's work effectively outlines the folkways and cultural differences between early British settlers in America, and how they have persisted to varying degrees in different areas of the country. This book is a valuable resource for understanding American cultural history, and would be a particularly good fit for those studying the social sciences or anyone with a keen interest in American regionalism.

Navigate the World of Politics

Our Politics section at Thryft features titles on global and regional politics, commentaries, and detailed analyses of current affairs. Whether you’re looking into political theory or getting up to date with recent global events, our collection is here to enlighten and provoke thought.