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Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed

by Jared Diamond
$11.90
Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed
Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed

Societal fates dissected through past civilizations' stories.

"Collapse" isn't just a history lesson; it's a wake-up call. Diamond uses real past societies to show how we're not immune to the forces that toppled them. It's for you if you're intrigued by history but also concerned about our future. You'll finish the book seeing our world with a mix of fascination and critical concern.

  • Royal Society Science Book Prize Nominee (2006)
  • California Book Award for Nonfiction (Silver) (2005)
  • Prix du livre sur l'environnement (2007)
Note: While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.

Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed

by Jared Diamond
$11.90
ISBN: 9780143117001
Authors: Jared Diamond
Publisher: Penguin Books
Date of Publication: 2011-01-04
Format: Paperback
Related Collections: Politics, Sociology, Science, Economics, History
Related Topics: Sociology, Society, History, Economics, Politics, History, Social Science, Sociology, Society, Anthropology, Politics
Goodreads rating: 3.93
(rated by 72915 readers)
Condition guide

Book Condition Guide

Books in Like New Condition

This book may contain very minor cosmetic defects, but it is in pristine condition. There should be no yellowing, no foxing, no water damage, and no annotations of any kind on the cover and the pages. For paperbacks, there should not be any crease marks on the spine. This book is good as new — lucky you!

*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.

Books in Very Good Condition

This book has been used, but it is still in a clean condition. There should be no foxing or annotations of any kind on the inner pages, but a sparse amount may be present on the cover, title pages, or outside edges of the book. There should be no water damage of any kind. For paperbacks, there may be light crease marks on the spine.

*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.

Books in Good Condition

We do our best to ensure the quality of our books, but there is no escaping the wear and tear that comes with time. Slight foxing and some annotations may be present on the pages and the cover. There should be no water damage of any kind. For paperbacks, there may be several crease marks on the spine.

*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.

Books in Well Read Condition

This is a well-read book, which means that the previous owner probably really enjoyed it! The cover and pages may include moderate foxing and annotations, but the text is not obscured and still readable. Moderate cosmetic defects and minor water damage may be present on the edges of the book. For paperbacks, there may be multiple crease marks on the spine.

*Books may be missing bundle media (e.g. CD, e-book code), if included.

 

Find out more about our process here.

 

Societal fates dissected through past civilizations' stories.

"Collapse" isn't just a history lesson; it's a wake-up call. Diamond uses real past societies to show how we're not immune to the forces that toppled them. It's for you if you're intrigued by history but also concerned about our future. You'll finish the book seeing our world with a mix of fascination and critical concern.

  • Royal Society Science Book Prize Nominee (2006)
  • California Book Award for Nonfiction (Silver) (2005)
  • Prix du livre sur l'environnement (2007)
Note: While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.

Politics Books

The Great Divergence: America's Growing Inequality Crisis and What We Can Do About It
Timothy Noah | Bloomsbury Press

The Great Divergence: America's Growing Inequality Crisis and What We Can Do About It

$13.90 from $10.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$13.90 from $10.90 28% off

56% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're puzzled by the widening economic chasm in America, "The Great Divergence" by Timothy Noah is a title you shouldn't miss. It's more than just numbers and statistics; it's a revelation of the sharp turn in American societal fabric over recent decades. Noah's methodical examination eschews partisan finger-pointing, offering a foundational understanding and prompting a crucial dialogue about our collective future.
21 Lessons for the 21st Century
New
Yuval Noah Harari | Random House Uk

21 Lessons for the 21st Century

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.17

from $8.90

63% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you find yourself pondering the state of the world and our place in it, "21 Lessons for the 21st Century" might feel like a guidebook you didn't realize you needed. Harari doesn't just scrutinize current affairs; he offers a conversation on how to understand and interact with the ever-evolving world around us. It's a thought-provoking read that doesn't pretend to have all the answers but encourages you to ask the right questions.
Double X Economy
New
Linda M. Scott | Faber & Faber, London

Double X Economy

from $12.90

Goodreads rating: 4.27

from $12.90

In stock: Well Read

If you're passionate about gender equality and seeking a deeper understanding of its impact on global economics, "Double X Economy" is the insightful read you need. It unveils how empowering women economically can drive global growth, and provides a persuasive argument for why we all should be champions of women's economic rights.
A Thousand Miles to Freedom: My Escape from North Korea
David Tian, Eunsun Kim, Sébastien Falletti  | St. Martin's Press

A Thousand Miles to Freedom: My Escape from North Korea

from $17.90

Goodreads rating: 3.97

from $17.90

In stock: Very Good

If stories of resilience and courage inspire you, you'll be deeply moved by "A Thousand Miles to Freedom." It's not just a memoir; it's a testament to the human spirit's capacity to overcome. You'll follow Kim's journey, feeling the weight of her struggles and the triumph of her freedom. This book is a window into a world that's often hidden, and it's sure to leave a lasting impression.
Pit Bull - The Battle Over an American Icon
Bronwen Dickey | Knopf

Pit Bull - The Battle Over an American Icon

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.37

from $8.90

75% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

"Pit Bull" is a book that could change your perspective on one of the most misunderstood dog breeds. Bronwen Dickey dives deep into cultural history, showing how human behavior shaped the pit bull's image from wartime hero to feared canine. If you love dogs, or just enjoy a story that challenges misconceptions with compassion and facts, this exploration of the American pit bull stands out as a moving and educational read.
Southeast Asia: An Introductory History
Milton E. Osborne | Allen & Unwin Australia Pty. Ltd.

Southeast Asia: An Introductory History

from $14.90

Goodreads rating: 3.63

from $14.90

49% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

Imagine a journey through time and culture, unveiling the rich tapestry of Southeast Asia with clarity and flair. Osborne's first-hand insights and accessible narrative paint a vivid picture of the region's dynamic history from colonial impacts to contemporary transformations. Whether you're a student, traveler, or simply curious, this book is a key to understanding the past and present of a fascinating part of the world.
Bharat Matters
S. Jaishankar | Rupa Publications India

Bharat Matters

$8.90 from $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$8.90 from $7.90 20% off

80% off est. retail

In stock: Like New

If you're intrigued by international politics and the global dynamics of rising powers, "Why Bharat Matters" is an insightful choice. S. Jaishankar, with his deep experience in foreign affairs, unveils India's journey against a backdrop of global instability, emphasizing its civilizational resilience. It's a compelling read that articulates India's strategic aspirations and how they may shape our future world.
The 48 Laws of Power
New
Robert Greene | Penguin Books

The 48 Laws of Power

from $10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.14

from $10.90

56% off est. retail

In stock: Like New

This book is for those who are fascinated by the inner workings of power and control. Through the examination of historical figures and ancient philosophies, "The 48 Laws of Power" provides a comprehensive guide on how to navigate the world where power is the ultimate currency. With its engaging storytelling and thought-provoking insights, this book will challenge your perceptions and empower you with the knowledge to wield power effectively in any situation. Whether you seek to gain power, defend against it, or simply understand the dynamics at play, this book is a must-read. Get ready to master the art of ultimate control.
The Panama Papers: Breaking the Story of How the Rich & Powerful Hide Their Money
New
Frederik Obermaier, Simon Pare  | Oneworld Publications

The Panama Papers: Breaking the Story of How the Rich & Powerful Hide Their Money

from $9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.07

from $9.90

50% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're intrigued by massive scoops and dogged journalism that shakes the very foundations of global power structures, "The Panama Papers" would resonate strongly with you. It’s not just about the technicalities of offshore accounts; it's a gripping narrative that threads through the clandestine economic practices of the world's elite and brings to light the staggering extents of their wealth concealment. This book isn't just informative; it's an eye-opener that reads like a thriller and has the impact of a seismic cultural event.
Kill All Normies - Online culture wars from 4chan and Tumblr to Trump and the alt-right - Thryft
Angela Nagle | Zero Books

Kill All Normies - Online culture wars from 4chan and Tumblr to Trump and the alt-right

$6.90 from $3.90 62% off

Goodreads rating: 3.46

$6.90 from $3.90 62% off

77% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you're curious about the dark underbelly of internet subcultures, "Kill All Normies" is a must-read. Angela Nagle fearlessly dives into the controversial and fascinating world of 4chan, alt-right movements, and online feminism. This book not only delves into the historical origins of these ideologies, but also offers a compelling case for reevaluating our current cultural climate. Prepare for a thought-provoking journey that unveils the hidden battlefields of the internet.

Sociology Books

What the Dog Saw: And Other Adventures
New
Malcolm Gladwell | Back Bay Books

What the Dog Saw: And Other Adventures

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.85

from $8.90

71% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're intrigued by the quirks and conundrums of daily life, "What the Dog Saw" is your kind of read. Gladwell has a knack for uncovering the extraordinary in the mundane, turning a curious gaze on everything from ketchup to canine psychology. It's not just trivial facts; it's about discovering the hidden threads that weave our world together. This book will coax your mind into viewing ordinary things through a lens of wonder and contemplation.
The North American Indian: The Complete Portfolios
Edward S. Curtis, Theodore Roosevelt, Hans Christian Adams  | Taschen

The North American Indian: The Complete Portfolios

from $13.90

Goodreads rating: 4.42

from $13.90

61% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you have a keen interest in history and photography, "The North American Indian" is a treasure trove waiting for you. Edward S. Curtis's dedication over three decades culminates in this book, which is not just an artistic masterpiece but also a crucial document of cultural preservation. It's a work that offers a rare and comprehensive insight into the lives and traditions of American Indian tribes.
American Marxism
New
Mark R. Levin | Threshold Editions

American Marxism

from $11.90

Goodreads rating: 4.17

from $11.90

54% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

If you're someone who resonates with conservative commentary and is concerned about the direction you perceive America is heading toward, Mark R. Levin's "American Marxism" might strike a chord with you. It's a book that taps into current socio-political anxieties from a right-wing perspective, aiming to articulate and affirm concerns regarding progressive ideologies in the current American landscape. Levin's work could fortify your understanding of these views, or challenge them, depending on where you stand.
White American Youth: My Descent Into America's Most Violent Hate Movement - And How I Got Out - Thryft
Christian Picciolini | Hachette Books

White American Youth: My Descent Into America's Most Violent Hate Movement - And How I Got Out

$8.68 from $4.90 49% off

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$8.68 from $4.90 49% off

78% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"White American Youth" is an eye-opener that if you've ever wondered about the realities of hate groups and the power of redemption, this memoir by Christian Picciolini will grip you. It's an honest reflection of his descent into, and out of, one of the most notorious movements, showing that change is possible even from the darkest of places. It might challenge your perceptions and inspire hope for transformation in those who have lost their way.
Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty
New
Daron Acemoğlu, James A. Robinson  | Profile Books

Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty

from $8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.08

from $8.26

65% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're someone who has always wondered why some nations thrive while others struggle, "Why Nations Fail" is the book for you. This book presents a unique and persuasive theory that institutions are the driving force behind a nation's power, prosperity, or poverty. Through a blend of economics, politics, history, and contemporary examples, Acemoglu and Robinson paint a powerful picture of the importance of sound institutions in creating a virtuous circle of innovation, expansion, and peace. Prepare to have your understanding of wealth and poverty completely transformed.
The Rise of the Robots: Technology and the Threat of Mass Unemployment
Martin Ford | Oneworld

The Rise of the Robots: Technology and the Threat of Mass Unemployment

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.97

from $8.90

34% off est. retail

In stock: Like New

Considering a future where jobs are scarce might feel uneasy, but "The Rise of the Robots" gets you pondering exactly that. Ford isn’t just foretelling doom; he's starting a crucial conversation about our collective future in the face of advancing technology. It's a stimulating read that pushes you to consider the societal and personal implications of an automated world, making it essential for those reflective about their careers and the economy.
Slow Spatial Reader: Chronicles of Radical Affection
Carolyn F. Strauss | November 2, 2021

Slow Spatial Reader: Chronicles of Radical Affection

$15.90 from $9.90 39% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$15.90 from $9.90 39% off

63% off est. retail

In stock: Like New

"Slow Spatial Reader" seems to challenge the ordinary pace at which we consume information and understand space. If you're intrigued by the relationship between environment, body, and thought, and you're up for a deep dive into complex ideas about spatial awareness told through a tapestry of diverse perspectives, this book could expand your perceptions. It's for those who appreciate contemplative reading and are willing to engage with radical concepts at a reflective speed.
Introducing Sociology
Richard Osborne, Borin Van Loon  | Icon,totem Books

Introducing Sociology

$8.90 from $7.90 20% off

Goodreads rating: 3.52

$8.90 from $7.90 20% off

49% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If sociology has ever seemed daunting to you, "Introducing Sociology" by Osborne and Van Loon could be the game-changer. It breaks down complex theories into digestible pieces with the aid of innovative graphics. Perfect for anyone new to the field or looking to refresh their knowledge, the book serves as an accessible primer on the foundational thinkers and concepts that have shaped sociology.
Freakonomics
New
Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J. Dubner  | Penguin

Freakonomics

$5.90 from $4.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$5.90 from $4.90 38% off

63% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good, Well Read

If you enjoy having your mind playfully challenged with unexpected perspectives on everyday phenomena, "Freakonomics" might just be the intellectual rollercoaster you're looking for. It's not your typical economics book; it delves into the hidden side of things you thought you knew. Steven Levitt invites you on a journey through intriguing questions, revealing that at times, what you thought was cause and effect might just be a blend of coincidence and incentive.
The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed the World
Michael Lewis | W. W. Norton & Company

The Undoing Project: A Friendship That Changed the World

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.98

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

The Undoing Project showcases two brilliant minds working in tandem, paving the way for the field of behavioral economics. Through their research, they revolutionized the way society views the human mind, providing insight into the ways in which we make judgments in uncertain situations. This book would be a great read for anyone interested in psychology and human behavior, providing a fascinating look into the lives of two men who made a profound impact on our understanding of decision-making.