Family Values: Between Neoliberalism and the New Social Conservatism (Zone / Near Futures) by David Hirsh is a thought-provoking book that examines the intersection of family values, neoliberalism, and social conservatism. The author argues that these ideologies are not mutually exclusive but rather complement each other in shaping contemporary society. Hirsch's analysis is based on interviews with individuals from various backgrounds who hold different views on the role of family values in modern life. He identifies three main types of neoliberalism: market-based, state-based, and hybrid models. Each model has its own set of assumptions about how families should function and what their responsibilities are. The book also explores the rise of social conservatism and its impact on family values. Hirsch argues that this ideology is driven by a desire to maintain traditional gender roles and preserve the nuclear family as the ideal unit of society. He notes, however, that neoliberalism has also contributed to the erosion of these traditional values by promoting individualism and competition over cooperation and community. Overall, Hirsch's book provides a nuanced analysis of the complex relationship between family values, neoliberalism, and social conservatism. It challenges readers to think critically about their own assumptions about what it means to be a good parent or citizen in today's world. Rethinking Money, Debt, and Finance after the Crisis by Michael Lewis is an insightful book that examines the financial crisis of 2008 and its impact on global economies. The author argues that the traditional models of capitalism are no longer sustainable and that a new approach to money, debt, and finance is needed. Lewis's analysis is based on interviews with experts in various fields, including economics, politics, and finance. He identifies several key factors that contributed to the crisis, including deregulation, risky lending practices, and a lack of transparency in financial markets. The book also explores alternative models for managing money, debt, and finance, such as local currencies, cooperative banking, and community-based investment strategies. Lewis argues that these approaches have the potential to create more equitable and sustainable economies that are better able to weather future crises. Overall, Rethinking Money, Debt, and Finance after the Crisis is a thought-provoking book that challenges readers to think critically about the role of money in society. It provides valuable insights into the causes of the financial crisis and offers practical solutions for creating more just and sustainable economies. Family Values: The Ethics of Parent-Child Relationships by James W. Jesso is a comprehensive book that explores the ethical dimensions of parent-child relationships. The author argues that these relationships are fundamental to human flourishing and that they require careful attention to ethical principles such as respect, responsibility, and reciprocity. Jesso's analysis is based on interviews with parents, educators, and other experts in various fields. He identifies several key challenges facing parent-child relationships today, including the erosion of traditional family structures, the rise of individualism, and the increasing pressure to succeed in a competitive world. The book also explores ethical dilemmas that parents may face in their interactions with their children, such as how to balance autonomy with responsibility, how to navigate conflicts between different values and beliefs, and how to foster healthy emotional development. Jesso offers practical guidance on how to address these challenges and cultivate strong, ethical parent-child relationships. Overall, Family Values: The Ethics of Parent-Child Relationships is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the ethical dimensions of family life. It provides insightful perspectives on the challenges facing parents today and offers practical guidance on how to navigate these challenges in a way that promotes human flourishing. Mother (Family Values Trilogy Book 1) by Sarah Manguso is a beautifully written memoir that explores the relationship between motherhood and identity. The author reflects on her own experiences as a mother, drawing on personal anecdotes and insights from her work as a writer and editor to explore themes such as love, sacrifice, and responsibility. Manguso's writing is evocative and poignant, capturing the complex emotions that come with being a parent. She grapples with questions such as how to balance her own needs and desires with those of her children, how to navigate the challenges of parenthood while still pursuing her own passions, and how to find meaning in the everyday moments of family life. Overall, Mother is a powerful memoir that offers insightful reflections on the relationship between motherhood and identity. It will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to balance the demands of parenthood with their own sense of self. Life As Surplus: Biotechnology and Capitalism in the Neoliberal Era by Richard Kerr is a thought-provoking book that explores the intersection of biotechnology, capitalism, and neoliberalism. The author argues that these forces are creating new forms of surplus value that are driving economic growth but also raising ethical concerns about the distribution of wealth and access to healthcare. Kerr's analysis is based on interviews with experts in various fields, including biology, economics, and politics. He identifies several key trends in the development of biotechnology, such as the rise of gene editing, personalized medicine, and synthetic biology. He also explores the ways in which these technologies are being used to create new forms of surplus value, such as through patents on genetic materials and intellectual property rights. The book also examines the ethical implications of these developments, including issues related to privacy, autonomy, and equity. Kerr argues that neoliberalism is creating a system in which wealth and power are concentrated in the hands of a few, while many people are left behind or excluded from the benefits of technological progress. Overall, Life As Surplus is a fascinating book that challenges readers to think critically about the role of biotechnology and capitalism in shaping our world. It provides valuable insights into the ethical dimensions of these developments and offers practical guidance on how to create more equitable and sustainable societies. An American Girl Story - Ivy & Julie 1976: A Happy Balance - Season 103 (4K UHD) is a nostalgic documentary that celebrates the classic television show "Ivy & Julie." The series, which ran from 1975 to 1982, was a staple of children's programming in the 1970s and 1980s, featuring two young girls who navigated life together in small-town America. The documentary is divided into several episodes that focus on different aspects of Ivy & Julie's lives, including their friendships, family relationships, and personal growth. It includes interviews with the show's creators, actors, and fans, as well as archival footage from the original series. Overall, An American Girl Story - Ivy & Julie 1976: A Happy Balance is a charming documentary that will appeal to fans of the original series and anyone who remembers what it was like to grow up in the 1970s and 1980s. It offers a nostalgic look back at a simpler time and celebrates the enduring power of friendship and community. An American Girl Story - Ivy & Julie 1976: A Happy Balance - Season 103 (4K UHD) is also available in season 103, which features episodes that focus on specific themes such as love, loss, and self-discovery. These episodes offer a deeper exploration of the characters' lives and relationships, providing insight into their personal struggles and triumphs. Overall, An American Girl Story - Ivy & Julie 1976: A Happy Balance is a delightful documentary that celebrates the enduring power of friendship and community. It offers a nostalgic look back at a simpler time and provides valuable insights into the ethical dimensions of family life and personal growth. In conclusion, these books offer a diverse range of perspectives on some of the most pressing issues facing society today. From neoliberalism to social conservatism, from biotechnology to parent-child relationships, they explore complex topics with depth and nuance.