In this book, Francis Fukuyama argues that the level of trust within a society is a crucial factor in its economic success. He contends that societies with high levels of trust, such as Germany, Japan, and the United States, are more likely to create flexible and large-scale business organizations necessary for competing in the global economy. Fukuyama examines various national cultures to identify the underlying principles that foster social and economic prosperity, emphasizing the importance of social capital and the interconnectedness of economic and cultural life. He challenges both neoclassical and state-centered economic theories by highlighting the role of trust and social virtues in economic development[1][2][4].
Demon Copperhead is a powerful and emotionally engaging novel that tells the story of Damon Fields, a boy born to a teenage single mother in a trailer home in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia. The novel, inspired by Charles Dickens' 'David Copperfield', follows Demon's journey through the challenges of foster care, child labor, derelict schools, athletic success, addiction, and disastrous loves. Kingsolver vividly portrays the opioid epidemic's impact on rural communities and explores themes of love, survival, and the transformative power of storytelling. The narrative is delivered through Demon's unsparing and authentic voice, which brings to life the harsh realities and the resilience of the people in Appalachia[1][3][5].
A classic novel by Charles Dickens, following the life of David Copperfield from childhood to adulthood.
Barbara Kingsolver's "Animal Dreams" is a novel that explores themes of environmentalism, community, and personal growth. The story is set in the fictional town of Grace, Arizona, and follows the lives of its inhabitants as they grapple with the impact of environmental change and the challenges of modern life. The novel is known for its lyrical prose and its insightful portrayal of human relationships. Kingsolver's exploration of the interconnectedness of nature and human society makes "Animal Dreams" a powerful and thought-provoking read. The novel's exploration of environmental issues and the importance of community continues to resonate with readers today.
In 'Animal, Vegetable, Miracle,' Barbara Kingsolver and her family chronicle their year-long experiment of eating only foods they grew themselves or obtained locally. The book contrasts their experiences with the ecological costs of modern industrial agriculture, including the transportation and chemical preservation of food. The family's journey involves learning about farming, animal husbandry, and seasonal cooking, and it explores the broader implications of food choices on health and the environment. The 10th anniversary edition includes new chapters from all family members, reflecting on how their decision to adopt a locally produced diet has continued to shape their lives and contribute to the locavore movement[2][4][5].
The novel follows the Price family, led by the fervent Baptist minister Nathan Price, as they move from suburban Georgia to a remote village in the Belgian Congo in 1959. The story is narrated by Nathan's wife, Orleanna, and their four daughters: Rachel, Leah, Adah, and Ruth May. As they navigate the challenges of their new environment, the family faces cultural dislocation, personal struggles, and the dramatic political changes in the Congo during its fight for independence. The novel delves into themes of moral risk, personal responsibility, and the complexities of colonialism, highlighting the different perspectives and transformations of each family member over three decades.
Barbara Kingsolver says that she’s “drawn to characters who don’t feel they have a place at the table. They’ve heard too many conversations that begin: You poor backward soul, living in the middle of nowhere.” It’s that impulse that animates her 2022 episodic novel “Demon Copperhead,” which won the Pulitzer Prize for fiction this year. It’s the story of Demon, an orphan in Appalachia who’s beset by crushing poverty and neglect but whose hardships are structural, introduced to his community by the mining and pain pill industries and made worse by urban prejudice and disdain. We talk to Kingsolver about how she brought “Demon Copperhead” to life and the power of art – both her protagonist’s and her own – to give voice and change minds.
Guests:
Barbara Kingsolver, author, "Demon Copperhead," which won the 2023 Pulitzer Prize for fiction. Her other books include "Unsheltered," "The Poisonwood Bible," and "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle."
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