#705: The Fed Can't Save Us This Time with Dave Collum

Ruchir Sharma's "What Went Wrong with Capitalism" examines the detrimental effects of excessive government intervention in the economy. Sharma argues that capitalism wasn't a failure, but rather was undermined by well-intentioned government actions. The book explores how government interventions, from increased spending to excessive regulation, have distorted markets and hindered productivity growth. Sharma uses historical examples and global case studies to support his analysis, offering insights into the insidious consequences of big government. He proposes solutions focused on restoring market efficiency and reducing the burden of state intervention.

In 'American Betrayal,' Diana West delves into the historical record to expose the extensive penetration of the U.S. government by Soviet agents and sympathizers from the 1930s through the Cold War era. She argues that this infiltration, particularly during Franklin D. Roosevelt's administration, led to a significant betrayal of American values and principles. West contends that this betrayal has had long-lasting effects, contributing to the erosion of moral standards, the rise of political correctness, and the suppression of truth. The book is part real-life thriller and part national tragedy, highlighting the hidden war between those who sought to conceal the truth and those who tried to expose it.

This novel by Frederick Turner vividly captures the Jazz Age, weaving a story around Leon 'Bix' Beiderbecke, a jazz legend known for his brilliant yet troubled life. The narrative is framed by the memories of Henry Wise, who reflects on the era's excesses and the tragic figures that defined it. The book features cameos by notable figures like Louis Armstrong and Clara Bow, offering a rich tapestry of the period's music, culture, and societal upheaval.