It Could Happen Here Weekly 169

In this book, David Graeber argues that debt has a much longer history than money and that it has played a central role in shaping human societies. He debunks the myth of barter as the precursor to money, instead proposing that credit systems and debt were the primary means of trade. Graeber examines how debt has been used as a tool for social control, influenced law, religion, and politics, and has led to periodic crises and debtor revolts throughout history. The book also discusses the moral and social implications of debt, suggesting that the concept of debt is more complex than a simple economic transaction.

In 'Border Economies,' James Gerber provides an in-depth exploration of the economic forces shaping the U.S. -Mexico border region. The book examines the historical development of specific economic sectors such as tourism, agriculture, water sharing, retailing, and manufacturing from a binational perspective. It emphasizes the permeability of the border, enabling constant bidirectional flows of people, goods, and finance, and discusses the complex mosaic of ethnicities, incomes, and living conditions in the region. Gerber's work offers a nuanced view beyond common prejudices and misunderstandings, highlighting both the challenges and the dynamism, opportunities, and cultural hybridity of the border region.

R. Derek Black's "Dangerous Learning" chronicles the violent suppression of Black literacy in the American South and the courageous resistance it faced. The book traces the evolution of literacy from a subversive act to a tool for building democratic institutions, highlighting the lasting impact on education. Black reveals how the legacy of this struggle continues to resonate today, shaping educational disparities and societal challenges. The narrative underscores the importance of literacy as a fundamental human right and its crucial role in achieving freedom and equality. The book serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for educational justice and the enduring significance of knowledge in the pursuit of a more equitable society.