https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar daily 0.75 2026-01-04 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/what-went-wrong-with-capitalism monthly 0.5 2026-01-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/3aab0f97-bd41-41fa-9176-470ba87da4f0/Tezza-4720.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - What Went Wrong With Capitalism Goldman Sachs projects global GDP growth of 2.8 percent in 2026, with the United States outperforming due to tax cuts, easier financial conditions, and a reduced drag from tariffs. As a result of these tax cuts, U.S. consumers are expected to receive roughly $100 billion in additional tax refunds in the first half of 2026, equivalent to about 0.4 percent of annual disposable income. Goldman Sachs economists also expect core inflation to moderate and policy rates to decline across developed markets in 2026. The question, however, is whether global growth under current policy frameworks will translate into widely shared prosperity, or whether it will reinforce the distortions that have come to define modern capitalism, particularly the persistent disregard for mounting debt and structural deficits. Drawing on economic crises from the 1960s through the 2000s, What Went Wrong With Capitalism by Ruchir Sharma examines strategies such as tax cuts and easier financial conditions can genuinely produce shared prosperity. Published in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the book argues that capitalism’s dysfunction is not the result of market failure alone, but of decades of policy choices that expanded government intervention, normalized debt, encouraged easy credit, and weakened competition. Sharma identifies a set of structural problems confronting capitalist societies that increasingly shape how the global economy functions and who benefits from growth. Government Expansion and Permanent Deficits Part I of What Went Wrong With Capitalism retraces the economic history of the last century, showing how governments evolved from relatively limited actors before the Great Depression to omnipresent forces in the twenty-first century. Prior to the 1970s, governments in developed economies rarely ran deficits outside wartime. Since then, deficits have become structural rather than exceptional. Sharma notes that large capitalist economies began running annual deficits in the late 1970s, marking a fundamental shift in fiscal norms. Rising debt in the 1980s further depressed growth while encouraging new borrowing by households and businesses. The resulting recoveries were characterized by weak growth and persistently low job creation. Between 2007 and 2016, easy money policies disproportionately boosted the wealth of the top 1 percent while pushing the net worth of the bottom half of Americans below zero. Sharma attributes rising inequality to two main forces: cheap credit that drove stock prices up faster than housing prices, and a housing market in which more expensive homes appreciated faster than cheaper ones throughout the 2010s. Between 1980 and 2008, the U.S. economy expanded roughly fourfold, while total debt grew more than elevenfold. Even long after the 2008 financial crisis, the Federal Reserve remained the largest buyer in the Treasury market, often purchasing more than half of newly issued U.S. government bonds in a given month. By 2023, the Fed held roughly 22 percent of Treasuries in circulation, up from 8 percent in 2008, placing the United States on a trajectory similar to Japan, where the central bank owns more than half of outstanding government debt. According to Sharma, modern capitalism has been reshaped by governments and central banks that inject more liquidity into the economy than markets can productively absorb. Low interest rates were initially expected, under standard economic models, to stimulate investment broadly across firms. In practice, large companies benefited disproportionately, investing more, earning higher profits, and driving equity valuations upward. Cheap money pushed investors toward equities and enabled dominant firms to further entrench their market power. When markets are free to allocate capital, they aggregate information from millions of investors into prices that guide resources toward the most productive firms and economies. Sharma argues that this mechanism has been fundamentally compromised. He also notes that conservative economists continue to argue that tax cuts alone can resolve structural economic problems, including deficits, despite mounting evidence to the contrary. Productivity Decline Sharma links long-term productivity growth to population expansion and globalization, forces that historically spread capitalism and raised living standards. The pandemic accelerated existing trends, directing capital toward large firms, particularly major technology companies. Before 2000, falling interest rates encouraged competition and innovation, contributing to the productivity boom of the dot-com era. As rates approached zero, however, they incentivized consolidation, allowing dominant firms to eliminate competitors and suppress productivity growth. This raises a forward-looking concern: if inflation in the United States has indeed moderated, as Goldman Sachs suggests, and the Federal Reserve cuts rates more aggressively than expected, could the economy once again drift toward concentration rather than competition? Rising inequality further undermines productivity. Lower-income families invest less in education, resulting in fewer years of schooling, weaker skill development, and reduced workforce productivity. These effects compound across generations. Artificial intelligence is unlikely to reverse these trends in the near term. Most firms have yet to adopt AI at scale, and widespread diffusion may not occur until the 2030s. Sharma cites projections, including those from Goldman Sachs, indicating that AI-driven productivity gains in the United States may average only around 0.2 percent annually, which is insufficient to offset broader structural slowdowns. Can Capitalism Still Work? Despite these challenges, Sharma argues that capitalism can succeed under alternative institutional arrangements. He highlights Switzerland, Taiwan, and Vietnam as examples of pragmatic governance across high-, middle-, and lower-income economies. Switzerland represents a less interventionist model that combines fiscal discipline with targeted redistribution. By 2023, countries such as Sweden and Denmark had repealed wealth taxes, recognizing that such policies often encouraged capital flight while disproportionately burdening the middle class. Taiwan’s pandemic-era stimulus amounted to less than 7 percent of GDP, compared with roughly 34 percent across the G4 economies. While its tax rates are comparable to those of other developed countries, Taiwan spends relatively little on social programs and health care, instead prioritizing education and research, producing steady and innovation-driven growth. Vietnam demonstrates how capitalism can function within a communist political system during early stages of development. However, Sharma cautions that authoritarian capitalism rarely sustains long-term growth. History suggests that democracies tend to produce more stable economic outcomes, with Singapore standing as a rare partial exception among advanced economies. Ultimately, What Went Wrong With Capitalism offers more than a diagnosis of past failures. It provides a framework for evaluating contemporary growth forecasts, including those from Goldman Sachs. Sharma’s analysis suggests that stronger headline growth, tax cuts, and easier financial conditions do not automatically translate into shared prosperity when they coexist with permanent deficits, rising concentration, and weak productivity gains. The question, then, is not whether the global economy can grow in 2026, but whether policymakers are willing to address the structural constraints that determine who ultimately benefits from that growth. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/greed-terror-and-heroism-in-colonial-africa monthly 0.5 2025-12-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/e5216638-a8a7-47d5-b6ab-fe6fe863f249/Tezza-9992.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Greed, Terror, and Heroism Adam Hochschild’s King Leopold’s Ghost: A Story of Greed, Terror, and Heroism in Colonial Africa is a haunting account of one of history’s most brutal chapters—the exploitation of the Congo under King Leopold II of Belgium. Hochschild begins in the mid-1870s, when Africa was portrayed as the “Dark Continent,” a land awaiting European conquest. Leopold, driven by ambition and greed, cloaked his imperial schemes in humanitarian rhetoric, yet the framework of his rule was military and merciless. Even children were not spared from the horrors of forced labor. Ironically, despite Congo being the dominating passion of his life, Leopold never set foot there. The book vividly details the atrocities committed during the rubber boom from 1896 to 1903, when Leopold’s greed reached its peak. Millions suffered under a system of terror designed to extract profit at any cost. Hochschild also reveals that similar forced labor systems spread to French, Portuguese, and German colonies—yet these mass murders went largely unnoticed. Why then did Britain and the United States erupt in righteous protest over the Congo? Hochschild argues that Congo was a “safe target”: condemning Belgium carried no diplomatic or economic risk, unlike challenging major powers such as France or Germany. This insight exposes the selective morality behind humanitarian campaigns. Beyond recounting horror, Hochschild explores the enduring legacy of colonialism. He reminds readers that recovery after conquest depends on pre-existing social and economic structures, and that Africa’s struggles today cannot be blamed solely on colonialism—though its impact was profound. The book draws sobering parallels between past and present, noting that democracy remains fragile worldwide, threatened by demagogues and ethnic chauvinism. Hochschild’s narrative forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths: the capacity for cruelty, the ease of forgetting through censorship and propaganda, and the slow, painful journey toward justice. King Leopold’s Ghost is more than history; it is a moral reckoning. It compels us to ask why atrocities are ignored until they become politically convenient, and whether humanity has truly learned from its past. Hochschild names the crimes of yesterday with the hope that no horror will ever compare—and that Africa can one day heal and move beyond its scars. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/who-is-government monthly 0.5 2025-12-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/7ece5fe3-5fce-4908-ab8c-46579a6d94ce/Tezza-3646.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Who Is Government? The Economist recently wrote that the U.S. government shutdown is not only ridiculous; it has become Washington’s new reality. According to the Pew Research Center’s 2024 findings, only about two in ten Americans say they trust the government in Washington to do what is right. This declining trust and shrinking resources have also become a major barrier for young people considering careers in public service. Who Is Government?: The Untold Story of Public Service by Michael Lewis is a timely and insightful book that sheds light on the U.S. government as a vast, complex system powered by people, largely unrecognized and uncelebrated, whose work profoundly shapes everyday life. Lewis tells the stories of dedicated employees across agencies such as the Department of Labor, the National Cemetery Administration, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Internal Revenue Service, the National Archives, the Department of Justice, and the Food and Drug Administration. Public service emerges as a higher calling for everyone featured in the book. Each story is inspiring and deeply human. Lewis reminds readers of the indispensable roles these employees play. The book also highlights two vital numbers that shape the U.S. government’s decisions: the census, which determines representation in the House of Representatives, and the consumer price index (CPI), the key measure of inflation. Lewis uses these examples to illustrate an important point: if we abandon the pursuit of statistical truth, we risk eroding democracy itself. He reminds readers that statistics are never neutral; they depend on how they are created and interpreted. As he writes, we must always ask whether the numbers truly tell the story they appear to tell. In Who Is Government?: The Untold Story of Public Service, Lewis restores dignity to the often unseen individuals who keep the machinery of democracy running. Lewis ultimately invites readers to reflect on what happens when the quiet competence of public service is no longer valued, and what that reveals about the state of governance today. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/the-age-of-sustainable-development monthly 0.5 2025-12-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/1f510ea2-2f76-41fe-893a-20e31b0561bc/Tezza-6359.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - The Age of Sustainable Development In States of Disarray: The UN at 80, The Economist’s Anton La Guardia sketched three scenarios for the United Nations’ future: a more independent UN, a decaying UN, or a “Trumpified” UN. Against this backdrop of uncertainty, Jeffrey Sachs’s The Age of Sustainable Development (2015) reads as both a roadmap and a warning. Published the same year the UN adopted the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the book outlines pathways to achieve global progress in economic development, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability—while acknowledging the immense challenges that remain. Ten years later, Sachs’s analysis retains striking relevance, particularly as climate change, inequality, and political fragmentation intensify. Sachs begins with the premise that societies have not reconciled the economic growth with environmental sustainability. The pressures on ecosystems, oceans, and climate systems remain acute. His framing captures the central paradox of our time: how to balance rising prosperity with planetary limits. This theme runs throughout the book, making it not only a work of economics but also of moral philosophy. A key contribution of the book lies in its discussion of widening inequalities. Sachs identifies three forces driving disparities across the U.S., Europe, and emerging economies: the growing premium on education, technological change favoring capital over labor, and structural disadvantages faced by landlocked economies. Particularly compelling is his emphasis on education—especially girls’ education—as a lever to break intergenerational poverty traps. Yet Sachs also highlights how automation and robotics have shifted income toward capital owners, reinforcing inequality. These insights anticipate today’s debates about AI, digital divides, and the uneven distribution of technological gains. Financing development emerges as another recurring theme. Sachs describes two avenues: borrowing for public investment, to be repaid by future growth, or receiving temporary external assistance from governments, businesses, and international institutions. He stresses the role of Official Development Assistance (ODA) and situates development within cultural contexts. His reflections on culture as a determinant of economic pathways were particularly thought-provoking and led me to consider more deeply how cultural norms shape progress toward the SDGs. The book also situates demographic trends at the heart of development. Countries that transition from high to low fertility, Sachs notes, tend to enjoy faster economic growth. Yet as The Economist has recently argued, the global population may peak and shrink sooner than expected, raising new uncertainties for labor markets, migration, and social welfare. Sachs’s analysis of gender equality further underscores that attitudes toward women vary widely across regions, profoundly shaping development trajectories. He identifies sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia as the regions most in need of breakthroughs, a point that remains pressing today. Perhaps the most distinctive section of the book is Sachs’s treatment of ethics. He surveys traditions ranging from virtue ethics (Buddha, Confucius, Aristotle) and religious morality (the Golden Rule), to Kantian duty ethics, utilitarianism, libertarianism, and modern human rights. By linking sustainable development to philosophical traditions, Sachs reminds readers that policy choices rest on ethical foundations. The pursuit of universal basic needs, whether justified through human rights or utilitarian logic, ultimately requires societies to articulate and debate their values. For me, this emphasis on ethics underscored the need for public dialogue about the moral underpinnings of the SDGs. The thematic chapters on health, cities, and climate change provide empirical grounding. Chapter 9, on health, illustrates how modest income gains in poor countries translate into steep improvements in life expectancy, while rich countries face rising healthcare costs. Chapter 11 explores the promise of resilient cities, noting that urban infrastructure can deliver both productivity and sustainability if investments are wisely directed. Chapter 12 on climate change is sobering: despite decades since the Rio Earth Summit, emissions remain high. Sachs concludes that while solutions exist, humanity lacks the political will and urgency to act—a conclusion that resonates even more strongly in 2025. Where Sachs is most persuasive is in his optimism. He argues that extreme poverty could be ended within a generation, perhaps by 2030 or 2035, if sound policies and global cooperation are pursued. This claim, though utopian at first glance, rests on evidence from countries that have already lifted millions out of poverty. Yet reading this today, amid pandemic setbacks, geopolitical rivalries, and financing shortfalls, raises doubts about whether such timelines are still realistic. Sachs’s framework remains valuable, but implementation has proven elusive. Ultimately, The Age of Sustainable Development is both a scholarly overview and a call to action. Its strength lies in weaving together economics, ethics, culture, and ecology into a coherent vision. At the same time, the book reflects the optimism of the mid-2010s, a moment when global consensus around the SDGs seemed within reach. Looking ahead, the upcoming 2026 selection of the next UN Secretary-General will be pivotal. The choice of leadership could tilt the organization toward one of the scenarios La Guardia described: greater independence, gradual decline, or politicized fragmentation. In that sense, Sachs’s framework offers not only an academic roadmap but also a practical reminder of the moral and policy choices awaiting the UN’s next generation of leaders. Today, as the UN itself faces questions about its future, Sachs’s message is even more urgent: sustainable development is not simply a technical exercise but an ethical project that depends on collective choices. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/our-dollar-your-problem monthly 0.5 2025-08-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/2b7f7dd3-6d9f-4af7-aab6-714788a448f5/IMG_7443.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Our Dollar, Your Problem The Economist wrote: “As investors question America’s stability, the risk is that they reduce their appetite for American assets and, by extension, the dollar.” Bloomberg reports that America will have less geopolitical and economic leverage if investors and central banks hold more kinds of currency. There is growing public interest, as well as concern, in the role and strength of the dollar. The interlinkages between finance, trade, and security in the international political economy are becoming increasingly apparent. Against this backdrop, marked by U.S. political dysfunction, global debt problems, the dollar’s decline following President Trump’s tariff announcement, and China’s push to move away from the dollar bloc, Kenneth Rogoff’s Our Dollar, Your Problem: An Insider’s View of Seven Turbulent Decades of Global Finance, and the Road Ahead has been an extraordinarily timely and insightful read for me this month. The book was written before the 2024 election and published in 2025, and it reflects Rogoff’s experience as the Maurits C. Boas Chair of International Economics at Harvard and as a former chief economist at the IMF. One must read through the book to fully understand its title. Our Dollar, Your Problem is strategically divided into six parts, each exploring past and present challenges to dollar dominance. Early sections review the roles of the Russian ruble and Japanese yen. Rogoff argues that Europe’s inability to provide for its own defense limits the euro’s potential as a dominant currency. He further explains that Europe’s lack of a capital markets union, an integrated banking system, and unified government debt markets handicaps the euro in competing with the dollar. Rogoff emphasizes that China’s fear of sanctions is a major impetus for its efforts to internationalize the renminbi, develop a central bank digital currency, and create parallel financial infrastructure outside the reach of U.S. oversight. The renminbi, therefore, may appear to be the most potent threat to the dollar. Yet Rogoff cites the IMF’s 2024 projection that China’s government debt will exceed 100 percent of GDP by 2027. Moreover, China’s statistics have become politically sensitive, raising questions about their reliability. For these reasons, along with China’s weak rule of law, debt burdens, and market illiquidity, Rogoff sees little chance that the renminbi will gain wide use in the West in the foreseeable future. This does not mean, however, that the dollar will maintain its dominance in Asia. The book’s case studies of fixed exchange rate crises in Thailand, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Lebanon are particularly eye-opening. They demonstrate that politics can override economic fundamentals and financial markets for long stretches. Rogoff contends that fixed exchange rates are sustainable only in rare circumstances; instead, most countries should adopt flexible exchange rates with inflation targeting and central bank independence. Our Dollar, Your Problem explains why the U.S. has sustained its advantage as the issuer of the world’s reserve currency. Americans’ greater appetite for risk in foreign investments, the U.S.’s first-mover advantage after World War II, and the country’s immigrant networks linking capital back to their homelands all play important roles. Ultimately, Rogoff argues that sustaining a dominant currency is inseparable from being a geopolitical superpower: the global financial system depends on rules, and the country with both economic and military strength has enormous power to shape those rules. Some key takeaways include: Overheated asset prices combined with slowing growth often precede financial crises. A country’s current account balance depends not just on the exchange rate but also on productivity, interest rates, savings, and business cycles. The timing of economic crises is notoriously hard to predict. The “middle-income trap” explains why many countries fail to catch up to richer ones despite favorable economic forces. Competitiveness hinges not only on exchange rates but also on domestic wages and prices. High tax rates often correlate with larger underground economies. The greatest long-term challenge for central banks may be unsustainable government debt. In practice, U.S. tax cuts have almost always significantly increased the deficit. Later chapters address the near-term economic implications of AI. Rogoff suggests that AI could be inflationary, given the large investments in energy and computing it will require, and that it could fuel internal social conflict by disrupting jobs and reshaping income distribution. Rogoff then concludes there are many reasons to believe that the Pax Dollar era has peaked. For me, Our Dollar, Your Problem underscores how finance, politics, and security are inseparable in today’s world. The dollar is not simply a unit of exchange; it is a mirror of America’s credibility, resilience, and global influence. If Rogoff is right that the Pax Dollar era has peaked, then the pressing question becomes whether the U.S. can adapt its institutions and alliances to preserve confidence in its leadership. The answer will shape not only markets but the contours of international order itself. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/how-countries-go-broke monthly 0.5 2025-07-29 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/which-country-has-the-worlds-best-health-care monthly 0.5 2025-06-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/75550888-8f3d-4d9b-8a39-42566c447625/IMG_6388.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Which Country Has The World’s Best Health Care Ezekiel J. Emanuel is the Vice Provost for Global Initiatives and Co-Director of the Healthcare Transformation Institute at the University of Pennsylvania. He also serves as the Special Advisor to the Director-General of the World Health Organization. In Which Country Has the World’s Best Health Care, published in 2020, Emanuel addresses questions frequently asked by American audiences and uses international comparisons to identify insights for reforming the U.S. health care system. He evaluates health systems in the United States and ten other countries—Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom—through seven lenses: history, coverage, financing, payment, delivery, pharmaceutical regulation, and workforce. Notably, Emanuel observes that global rankings of public health system preparedness has little relation to how effectively countries responded to the COVID-19 pandemic. Which Country Has The World’s Best Health Care reaffirms the widely held view that the United States underperforms across multiple dimensions. On average, drug prices in the U.S. are 56% higher than in European countries, making pharmaceuticals the single largest driver of higher health care costs. The U.S. lags in coverage, quality, and cost efficiency, hindered by ideological divides, insufficient subsidies, and systemic complexity that continues to block the path to universal coverage. Despite this, Emanuel remains cautiously optimistic. He notes the strength of the U.S. in health care delivery innovation, particularly in chronic care coordination. Like the Netherlands, the U.S. has pockets of excellence—pilot programs and institutional innovations that offer promise and deserve further study or replication. Emanuel offers several actionable lessons from abroad that could be adopted in the U.S.: Implement automatic enrollment and increase subsidies to move toward universal coverage. Provide free coverage for children. Simplify the health care system to reduce administrative burdens and costs. Prioritize and increase compensation for primary care providers. Expand best practices in chronic and mental health care. Join the global consensus on regulating drug prices. Importantly, Emanuel emphasizes that no country has found a fully sustainable and efficient model for addressing mental health care, curbing rising costs of chronic conditions, or eliminating low-value care. Across systems, issues like administrative inefficiency and financial strain remain pressing. Which Country Has The World’s Best Health Care identifies seven major challenges common to all high-income health care systems: Rising cost pressures across the board Escalating drug prices Inefficiencies and unnecessary care Poorly developed proactive chronic care coordination Misalignment between care delivery models and chronic health needs Lack of integration between mental and physical health care Unresolved long-term care funding and provision These challenges are intensifying due to two global mega-trends: aging populations and the proliferation of expensive medical technologies. As a result, health systems face increasing burdens: a growing population with multiple chronic conditions, greater demand for coordinated care, and rising needs for long-term care services. Country highlights that stood out to me: France: Prescription drug spending is kept in check with a national annual growth cap; companies must rebate 50–70% of revenue that exceeds the cap. Germany: Highly favorable for patient choice and one of the few countries with a dedicated tax to fund long-term care. Switzerland: Lacks chronic care coordination and integrated mental health care. National data on provider performance and health equity is also missing. Australia: Political leadership has historically alternated between the center-left and center-right coalitions, influencing health policy accordingly. China: A fragmented system with wide disparities across regions. The hospital-centric model, unequal resource distribution, and a lack of trust between doctors and patients present serious challenges. Mental health remains highly stigmatized, with fewer than 10% of those affected seeking treatment. Key Takeaways: Universal health coverage is a relatively recent achievement, even in high-income countries. Although the paths differ, no country has reversed course once universal coverage is in place. Health systems are path-dependent and shaped by history and politics. In summary, politics play a central role in shaping health care policy—a theme that I notice throughout the book. Which Country Has the World’s Best Health Care is a compelling, accessible read for policymakers, researchers, political scientists, and health economists alike. It challenges readers to think globally while advocating for practical, evidence-based reforms at home. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/trade-wars-are-class-wars monthly 0.5 2025-05-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/1c34268c-7a89-47c9-9573-b13154da6d21/IMG_5196.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Trade Wars Are Class Wars I chose to read How Trade Wars Are Class Wars: How Rising Inequality Distorts the Global Economy and Threatens International Peace by Michael Pettis and Matthew C. Klein to better understand why tariffs often fail to resolve trade imbalances. Pettis and Klein offer a compelling argument that modern trade conflicts are rooted less in national competition and more in domestic inequality. Their central thesis is that income inequality within countries, especially surplus nations, leads to global trade tensions. The authors revisit historical trade ideas and policies, from the Dallas Tariff of 1816 and the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act to the Open Door Policy and the Marshall Plan. They use these examples to show how imbalances in global trade and capital flows stem more from domestic policy distortions than from bilateral disagreements. How Trade Wars Are Class Wars explains that the U.S. runs a current account deficit because foreign savers invest more in the U.S. than Americans invest abroad, while China runs a surplus for the opposite reason. A major critique in the book discusses how global trade statistics are compiled. Pettis and Klein argue that traditional customs data misrepresent actual trade flows due to the complexity of global supply chains. They highlight how U.S. imports are overstated by around 16%, exports by 20%, and Chinese trade figures by approximately 30%, due to transnational manufacturing and tax avoidance strategies. Crucially, the book explains how trade imbalances are driven by financial flows, not just goods and services. The distribution of income within countries influences national savings rates, which in turn shape trade surpluses or deficits. Surplus countries tend to suppress domestic consumption, whether by holding down wages or curbing government spending, thus exporting excess production and capital. Deficit countries like the U.S. absorb these surpluses, often at the cost of jobs and industrial decline. The authors explore this through several country case studies. China’s export-heavy, high-savings model resulted in one of the largest global surpluses by the 2000s, exacerbating global imbalances. Germany's transformation—through policies such as Agenda 2010 and the 2009 "Debt Brake", similarly boosted its surplus, contributing to the Eurozone crisis. In contrast, the U.S. functions as the world’s "consumer of last resort," not because of its fiscal choices, but because it absorbs capital inflows, leading to persistent deficits and deindustrialization. Pettis and Klein argue that sustainable global trade requires more than tariffs or industrial policy. It demands addressing domestic inequality within surplus countries and rebalancing capital flows. The United States, they argue, bears an “exorbitant burden”—not privilege—in propping up the world economy at the expense of its working class. Reform must be global in nature, but led by deficit countries forcing surplus nations to correct domestic imbalances. In conclusion, How Trade Wars Are Class Wars is a timely analysis that challenges standard trade narratives. It provides a clear explanation of how inequality fuels global imbalances and encourages readers to rethink the structures underpinning globalization. Pettis and Klein offer not just a diagnosis of trade tensions, but a call for systemic reform—one grounded in equity and sustainability rather than protectionism. The book is essential reading for anyone interested in global economics, inequality, or international political economy. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/autocracy-inc monthly 0.5 2025-04-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/c4034c51-49bf-4b76-b7c3-c8875f15c832/image0.jpeg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Autocracy, Inc. Anne Applebaum is a staff writer for The Atlantic and a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian. She is also a Senior Fellow at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies and the SNF Agora Institute. One of her acclaimed books published in 2024, Autocracy, Inc.: Dictators Who Want to Run the World, investigates where autocracy came from, why it persists, how the democratic world originally helped consolidate autocratic countries, and how we can defeat autocracy. Anne describes autocratic governments as an agglomeration of companies that share a ruthless, single-minded determination to preserve their personal wealth and power. These governments are willing to destabilize their own countries, even at the cost of destroying the lives of ordinary and innocent citizens. Having lived under an autocratic regime in Burma, Autocracy, Inc. speaks truth to me in many ways. Chapter 1, The Greed That Binds, starts with the assumption that in a more open and interconnected world, democracy and liberal ideas would spread to autocratic states. Instead, autocracy and illiberalism have spread to the democratic world. Autocracy, Inc. depicts a world in which autocracies work together to stay in power, promote their system, and damage democracies. Anne also reports how kleptocracy and autocracy go hand in hand. Some examples of kleptocracy include real estate agents who do not ask too many questions in Sussex or Hampshire, bankers in Sioux Falls who are happy to accept mystery deposits from mystery clients, and factory owners eager to unload failing businesses in Warren. In summary, the financial instruments available in democratic countries—used by nameless investors to hide their money from the world—have come to undermine the rule of law around the globe. Autocracy, Inc. notes that there is no liberal world order anymore, simply because autocratic governments are replacing experts with loyalists. According to Anne, in Putin’s Russia, Assad’s Syria, or Maduro’s Venezuela, politicians and television personalities often play a different game: they lie constantly, blatantly, and obviously. But when they are exposed, they don’t bother to offer counterarguments. Some autocratic countries under sanctions survive by utilizing new sources of funding such as drug trafficking, illegal mining, extortion, kidnapping, and gasoline smuggling. The book also discusses the emergence of hybrid states between 1980 and 2002—countries that trade normally with the democratic world but are also willing to launder or accept criminal or stolen wealth or to assist people and companies that have been sanctioned. The group of countries known as BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) is transforming itself into an alternative international institution, with regular meetings and new members. In January 2024, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the U.A.E., and Ethiopia were welcomed into the group, giving it the flavor of a new Moscow- and Beijing-oriented world order. Autocracy, Inc. also investigates the rise of local protests around the world calling for democratic reforms. One example is the #ThisFlag movement in Zimbabwe, considered one of the most influential civilian-led political movements, which inspired subsequent protests and contributed to the eventual resignation of President Mugabe in 2017. Anne points out that a school of thought held dearly by Western—especially American—students of foreign policy sees the world as a series of separate issues (Eastern Europe, the Middle East, the South China Sea), each requiring a different cadre of experts or specialists. But that is not how autocracies see the world. Autocracy, Inc. shows how Putin backs far-right and extremist movements in Europe and has provided thugs and weapons to support African dictatorships. It is clear that autocracies track one another’s defeats and victories, timing their own moves to create maximum chaos. Autocracy, Inc. suggests that democracies around the world, along with democratic activists in authoritarian countries, should see their fight as not against certain countries or peoples, but against authoritarian behavior itself, no matter where it happens. It’s not about a "war with China" or any one nation — it’s about opposing actions that threaten freedom and democracy everywhere. Therefore, fighting autocracy first requires understanding that we are facing an epidemic of information laundering and committing to exposing it when we can. The book offers several other suggestions: We need networks of lawyers and public officials to fight corruption at home and abroad, in cooperation with democratic activists who understand kleptocracy best. We need military and intelligence coalitions that can anticipate and halt lawless violence. We need economic warriors in multiple countries who can track the impact of sanctions in real time, understand who is breaking them, and take steps to stop them. We need people willing to organize online and coordinate campaigns to identify and debunk dehumanizing propaganda. A joint effort among diasporas—for example, from Russia, Hong Kong, Venezuela, and Iran—could have a far larger impact than any group could achieve alone. We could require all real estate transactions in the U.S. and Europe to be fully transparent. We could require companies to register under their actual owners and trusts to reveal the names of their beneficiaries. We could ban citizens from keeping money in jurisdictions that promote secrecy and ban lawyers and accountants from engaging with them. We could close loopholes that allow anonymity in the private equity and hedge fund industries. We could create effective enforcement teams that operate across countries and continents, in coordination with international partners. Autocracy, Inc. challenges readers to confront the harsh realities of autocracy and invites them to reassess their critical roles as citizens, policymakers, business leaders, and educators. As Anne warns, NOBODY’S DEMOCRACY IS SAFE. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/dead-aid monthly 0.5 2025-04-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/e04df080-3c9f-4934-852d-096d052174dd/IMG_4020.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Dead Aid Dambisa Moyo, a Zambian-born economist known for her incisive analysis of macroeconomics and global affairs, holds a PhD in economics from Oxford University and a master’s degree from Harvard University. In her provocative book Dead Aid: Why Aid Is Not Working and How There Is Another Way for Africa (2009), Moyo challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding development aid. She critically examines how the original goals of foreign aid—sustainable economic growth and poverty alleviation—have failed. Instead, she argues, decades of aid have entrenched corruption and undermined governance across much of Africa. Moyo focuses on aid in the form of loans—particularly from institutions like the World Bank and the IMF—rather than direct grants, humanitarian or emergency aid, and charity-based aid. She critiques development organizations for measuring success by the volume of aid disbursed rather than by its real-world impact. Her core argument calls for a decisive shift away from the aid-dependent model toward an aid-free future. One of the more nuanced ideas in Dead Aid is Moyo’s discussion of “positive” corruption. She contrasts Africa’s stagnation with the rapid growth of several Asian countries that, despite high levels of perceived corruption, successfully transitioned from commodity exports to industrial manufacturing economies. Moyo explains how foreign aid discourages investment in export sectors, reduces domestic savings rates, and ultimately hinders sustainable growth. As an alternative, she advocates for African countries to build credibility in global capital markets, develop domestic bond markets, and raise capital independently. In the chapter “Let’s Trade,” Moyo promotes greater intra-African and international trade. She argues that regardless of Africa’s growing potential, the terms of trade with the West remain fundamentally unequal—and are likely to remain so. This imbalance is evident in the tariff regimes African exports continue to face in Western markets. If the West is serious about supporting African development, Moyo contends, the conversation should center on fair trade—not more aid. She also contrasts this with China’s approach in Africa, which she views as more transactional and outcome-driven. While not without controversy, China’s investments have brought infrastructure and jobs—at least in the short term—because they demand clear returns and results. Dead Aid emphasizes the importance of accountable governance and legal transparency. Moyo argues for strong legal frameworks that would allow Africans to use land as collateral, enabling private sector growth and entrepreneurship. Accountability, she insists, is central to economic development: without it—and without channels to mobilize risk capital for small and medium-sized enterprises—sustained success is unlikely. In the chapter “Banking on the Unbankable,” she explores how microfinance and small-scale banking can empower low-income populations and generate enterprise. She also highlights remittances as a vital but often overlooked source of capital for many African economies. The conclusion of Dead Aid is unapologetic and confrontational: it is time to stop pretending that the current aid-based development model will deliver sustainable economic growth for the world’s poorest countries. It will not. The book compels readers to reflect more deeply and pursue further inquiry on the future of development. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/shocks-crises-and-false-alarms monthly 0.5 2025-03-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/7dcd5090-acf9-4d8d-8629-ab26b01ede63/IMG_3229.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Shocks, Crises, and False Alarms The late 2010s fed into stark predictions of a recession by 2022, based mainly on the view that elevated economic debt levels would cause significant pain as interest rates rose. However, by the end of 2023, it became clear that the economy was more resilient than many expected. The dynamics then—and now—are far more complex. Shocks, Crises, and False Alarms, released in October 2024 by Paul Swartz and Philipp Carlsson-Szlezak, highlights the prevalence of false alarms alongside every real crisis. Paul Swartz, a Senior Economist and Executive Director at Boston Consulting Group (BCG) for Macroeconomics, and Philipp Carlsson-Szlezak, BCG’s Global Chief Economist and Managing Director & Partner, argue that rational optimism is not naive, and excessive pessimism is not sophisticated. Their book pursues two objectives: first, how to analyze macroeconomic risks, and second, how to envision the future of the macroeconomic system. Shocks, Crises, and False Alarms warns that assuming the worst and forcing analysis to fit that mental model does not help identify genuine risks. To counter this tendency, the authors offer three core concepts: Master-model mentality cripples economic judgment. Doom-mongering is inevitable—in good times, recession risk will always seem more compelling than upside potential; in crises, systemic collapse will draw more attention than recovery. Economic eclecticism should be the starting point—understand how the system works, identify drivers and dynamics, and assess what structural shifts would be required to alter those dynamics. A "blinking dashboard" cannot replace sound macro judgment. Chapter 3 offers a particularly useful framework, emphasizing the need to distinguish between three types of recessions—real, policy-induced, and financial—by analyzing both exogenous and endogenous shocks. The authors also argue that productivity remains the most sustainable driver of growth, directly contributing to per capita gains. They clarify that productivity boosts are not merely about product innovation but about scalable labor-cost reductions that lower prices and raise real incomes, fueling broader economic activity. Importantly, Shocks, Crises, and False Alarms rejects the notion that technological unemployment is inevitable. While technology's potential for macroeconomic impact is stronger than at any point in a generation, the authors suggest readers expect gradual progress and not sudden breakthroughs. The book also traces the origins of modern stimulus regimes—both tactical and existential—from the Reagan deficits of the 1980s to the 1990s dot-com bubble, the 2000s housing bubble, and the 2010s surge in government debt. In Chapter 18, the authors argue that leaders should avoid approaching geopolitical risk analysis like corporate strategy, as there is no such thing as a meaningful five-year geopolitical plan. Just as economists cannot consistently predict macro outcomes, geopolitical experts cannot consistently forecast major events. Instead, executives and investors should focus on assessing the economic impact of geopolitical shifts, rather than attempting to predict precise timelines or events. Despite increasing geopolitical friction, Swartz and Carlsson-Szlezak remain optimistic about growth in regional trade, even if global value chains shorten. On the role of the U.S. dollar as the world’s reserve currency, they conclude that no serious contender currently combines deep debt markets, credible institutions, and open capital markets, leaving the dollar dominant for the foreseeable future. The authors forecast the 2020s as an "era of tightness"—characterized by healthy interest rates, tighter labor markets, and stronger capital expenditures. Unlike the 2010s, when cheap labor and low capex defined the corporate playbook, the 2020s will be marked by relative labor scarcity, robust capex, and fuller employment of both labor and capital. This period may come to resemble the 1950s and 1960s more than the decade that preceded it. As companies adjust to repatriating production and strengthening supply chains, the resulting constraints will reinforce this era of tightness. The authors also caution that if a great-power conflict occurs, the primary economic impact will come from rapid shifts in business rules—not from systemic collapse. Shocks, Crises, and False Alarms is a timely and relevant book for navigating today’s global and local uncertainties. It reminds readers not to take headlines—or economic models crafted to fit prevailing narratives—too seriously. Ultimately, Swartz and Carlsson-Szlezak reinforce that navigating risk is not about eliminating it but understanding and managing it wisely. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/the-hundred-years-war-on-palestine monthly 0.5 2025-02-14 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/f7c9225d-3da0-4809-af00-a753c644bd94/IMG_2636.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - The Hundred Years’ War on Palestine The Hundred Years’ War on Palestine by Rashid Khalidi is an academic and research-based work that also weaves in personal experiences. Khalidi, the Edward Said Professor of Modern Arab Studies at Columbia University and co-editor of the Journal of Palestine Studies, is a prominent historian and the author of eight books, including Palestinian Identity, Brokers of Deceit, and The Iron Cage. Dedicated to his grandchildren, this book challenges prevailing narratives of the Israel-Palestine conflict and aims to recover aspects of history that have been omitted or distorted by those in power. Khalidi presents Palestine’s modern history as a colonial war waged against its indigenous population, carried out by various actors seeking to displace them from their homeland. The book begins with the period from 1917 to 1939 that highlights Britain’s strategic sponsorship of the Zionist project, aligned with the interests of Protestant elites in Great Britain and the United States. Khalidi argues that the 1917 Balfour Declaration effectively nullified Palestinian existence by promising their land as a national home for others. This led to mounting resistance, culminating in the 1936–1939 Arab Revolt and Britain’s subsequent 1939 White Paper. Chapter 2 covers the events of 1947–1948 and frames Hitler’s rise as a pivotal moment in both Zionist and Palestinian history. Khalidi notes that in 1935 alone, more than 60,000 Jewish immigrants arrived in Palestine, exceeding the Jewish population of the region in 1917. Internal Palestinian divisions, compounded by rivalries among newly independent Arab states, further weakened their resistance. Khalidi details how certain Arab leaders secretly negotiated with the Zionist movement, often undermining Palestinian interests. The 1948 Nakba—the mass displacement and expulsion of Palestinians following the establishment of Israel—remains a defining historical trauma spanning generations for Palestinians. Chapter 3 examines the 1967 war, which reshaped Middle Eastern geopolitics. Israel’s capture of the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem led to prolonged military occupation and settlement expansion, displacing hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and Syrians. The UN called for Israeli withdrawal in exchange for peace, but no resolution followed. The war also spurred Palestinian nationalism, strengthening the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and setting the stage for future conflicts, including the 1973 Yom Kippur War. Chapter 4 critiques the PLO’s shortcomings from the late 1960s to 1982, particularly after its forced relocation to Lebanon following Black September (1970–1971). Khalidi describes how the PLO’s armed presence in Lebanon fueled resentment and ultimately contributed to Israel’s 1982 invasion. He condemns U.S. policy, noting that President Reagan’s administration viewed the PLO as a Soviet-aligned terrorist organization and failed to protect Palestinian civilians, particularly in the aftermath of the Sabra and Shatila massacres. Khalidi argues that the 1990–1991 Gulf War further weakened the PLO, exposing flaws in its diplomatic strategy. He critiques Palestinian leadership for failing to engage effectively with American public opinion and for misunderstanding U.S. political dynamics. According to Khalidi, the United States is not and cannot be a neutral mediator in the conflict. Chapter 5 explores the First Intifada (1987–1993), a grassroots uprising against Israeli occupation that led to the 1993 Oslo Accords, in which Israel and the PLO recognized each other. Khalidi asserts that Israel’s concessions were superficial and designed to maintain occupation indefinitely. He criticizes the PLO’s weak negotiating team, arguing that they lacked the legal and linguistic expertise necessary to counter Israeli tactics. Khalidi also examines the Second Intifada (2000–2005), triggered by Ariel Sharon’s visit to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, which resulted in even greater violence. Chapter 6 covers the period from 2000 to 2014, focusing on the impact of Hamas’s 2006 election victory, which led to international sanctions, internal Palestinian divisions, and the blockade of Gaza. Khalidi connects rising Islamophobia and American exceptionalism to the policies of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, noting how past U.S. presidents have occasionally overridden Israeli objections when American strategic interests were at stake, such as during the 1956 Suez Crisis and Henry Kissinger’s 1973–1975 disengagement negotiations. In the book’s conclusion, Khalidi presents his vision for a sustainable resolution, arguing that the conflict must be understood in its colonial context. He identifies three key approaches to reframing global perceptions of Palestine: Drawing comparisons to other settler-colonial experiences, such as those of Native Americans, South Africans, and the Irish. Highlighting the extreme power imbalance between Israel and the Palestinians. Emphasizing the issue of inequality as central to any resolution. Khalidi then examines the psychological dimensions of both Israeli and Palestinian perspectives. He argues that Israelis must confront their attachment to inequality, often justified by security concerns rooted in historical persecution, while Palestinians must acknowledge that Jewish Israelis, despite the colonial origins of Zionism, have developed a national identity and sense of belonging in the land. Ultimately, Khalidi warns that continuing negotiations on a flawed foundation will only reinforce a status quo leading to the full annexation of Palestine into Greater Israel. He contends that any meaningful resolution requires a fundamental shift in how the conflict is framed—one that acknowledges historical injustices, challenges entrenched power dynamics, and prioritizes equality over dominance. For readers seeking to understand the roots of the conflict and envision a just future, The Hundred Years’ War on Palestine serves as both a historical account and a powerful call to rethink prevailing narratives. By tracing the century-long struggle of the Palestinian people, Khalidi invites critical reflection on the past while urging a reimagining of what a just and lasting peace could look like. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/the-scent-of-flowers-at-night monthly 0.5 2025-01-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/2c1d699e-68bd-4684-b49e-32b33c5f8f6c/IMG_2406.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - The Scent of Flowers at Night The Scent of Flowers at Night, written by Leïla Slimani and translated by Sam Taylor, was recently recommended to me. Slimani, a prize-winning French-Moroccan novelist and journalist, also serves as the personal representative of French President Emmanuel Macron to the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. I was pleasantly surprised by the book’s simplicity, which nevertheless offers profound insights into the phenomenon of the Harraga and the ways in which social, cultural, and political contexts are seamlessly woven into literature. The narrative is personal and intimate, imbued with a reflective tone as Slimani recounts her childhood in Rabat, Morocco, and her journey through life. This introspection unfolds during a one-night adventure in which Slimani agrees to be locked alone inside Venice’s Punta della Dogana Museum. Surrounded by art and enveloped in silence, she meditates on how writing becomes a quiet act of revealing one’s innermost thoughts, fears, and desires. Leïla reminds us that, ultimately, each of us seeks a better life. Sometimes, that better life feels most attainable at night—a realm Slimani beautifully describes as: “Night is the place where utopias have the scent of the possible, where we no longer feel constrained by petty reality. Night is the country of dreams where we discover that, in the secrecy of our heart, we are host to a multitude of voices and an infinity of worlds.” The Scent of Flowers at Night is deeply humane, reminding readers of the unspoken, private corners of our inner selves—spaces that others cannot reach or tarnish. I was particularly struck by Slimani’s poignant observation: “When you have several countries, several cultures, it can lead to a certain confusion. You are here and also from elsewhere. You always consider yourself a foreigner, but at the same time, you hate it when others see you that way. Our identity is both plural and partial.” This sentiment resonates deeply, especially with immigrants and emigrants, who often grapple with the duality of belonging and estrangement. Slimani’s words are both a mirror and a comfort, offering a shared understanding of the complexity of identity and the universal longing for connection and home. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/how-economics-explains-the-world monthly 0.5 2025-01-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/5b08a6fe-867a-47a0-9448-d9706d97abd6/IMG_2249.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - How Economics Explains the World As we navigate daily world news, we encounter headlines about wars, global markets, and cities grappling with climate change. How can we make sense of these interconnected topics to guide better decision-making for the future? In How Economics Explains the World: A Short History of Human History, Harvard-trained economist Andrew Leigh argues that economics offers the tools to answer these questions and improve our lives. Leigh highlights the limitations of traditional economic models, which often rely on purely rational assumptions and fail to account for complex and rapidly evolving variables. He points out that standard models frequently overlook critical events like conflicts, pandemics, famines, bankruptcies, defaults, and trade wars. By addressing these gaps, Leigh uncovers the hidden economic forces driving religious movements, social transformations, and wars, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the forces shaping our world. The book highlights how economic downturns often lead people to seek scapegoats, beginning with their voting behavior. Leigh's research shows that voters are more likely to re-elect governments that deliver strong economic growth. However, they struggle to differentiate between governments benefiting from favorable global conditions and those excelling due to skill. Examples such as the Corn Laws debate, the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, Trump-era tariffs, and Brexit illustrate how isolationist policies often win elections, even when openness aligns better with economic principles. Readers will revisit significant historical events—from the invention of the printing press to the Industrial Revolution, the wealth of nations, World Wars I and II, and the Bretton Woods system—through an economic lens. Leigh also delves into key themes such as inflation, markets, climate change, and the Great Depression, revealing their underlying economic factors. He emphasizes that economists play a vital role in designing international economic frameworks to sustain peace but clarifies that technological progress and global market access alone have not solved all global challenges. How Economics Explains the World underscores that rising inequality is not the sole economic concern and highlights the critical role of low unemployment in fostering stable societies. Leigh examines the "economics of identity," exploring how people derive societal roles and self-perception from their work. He argues that populist movements often stem from cultural and identity crises triggered by the loss of secure working-class jobs—a poignant reminder in the digital age. Leigh also draws on the ideas of economists like David Ricardo, John Maynard Keynes, and Thomas Friedman to demonstrate how their theories shape our responses to technological advancements and climate change. Leigh explains that cities and countries tend to achieve greater equality when education keeps pace with technological change, unions remain strong, and taxes are progressive. Equality also improves when economic growth rates match or exceed the return on capital. He highlights how tariffs, once a significant revenue source before the advent of income taxes, funded wars like the Napoleonic Wars and the U.S. Civil War. However, Leigh cautions that poorly implemented tariffs can harm economies, as seen during the Great Depression when reduced immigration and higher tariffs exacerbated economic decline. How Economics Explains the World traces the emergence of capitalism and market systems, explores the key ideas and figures shaping economics, and examines the influence of economic forces on world history. Leigh advocates that economics can enhance life in areas such as education, entrepreneurship, social interactions, and investing. Crucially, he assures readers that one need not be an economist to grasp how economics permeates daily life. Some of his simple yet powerful suggestions include: When faced with tough decisions, weigh the costs and benefits. Consider opportunity costs—what are you giving up? Think on the margin—determine whether having one more of something is worthwhile. Acknowledge externalities—recognize how your decisions impact others, positively or negatively. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/how-big-things-get-done monthly 0.5 2024-12-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/0f8fe726-df42-403d-b840-0a8b6df69b99/image0.jpeg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - How Big Things Get Done Ho Chi Minh City’s first metro line project was approved in 2007 and was expected to serve its 10 million residents starting in 2018. However, after years of funding shortages and soaring costs, the project finally began operations in late 2024. According to Bloomberg News, the soaring costs had to be re-approved by Vietnam’s parliament, which was a painstakingly slow process. The delays and challenges were significant but unsurprising, as countless examples of megaprojects fail to stay within budget, meet deadlines, or deliver anticipated benefits. The expertise and experience required to manage large-scale, complex projects are becoming increasingly crucial, particularly as the world tackles transformative initiatives such as combating climate change. In their book How Big Things Get Done: The Surprising Factors That Determine the Fate of Every Project, from Home Renovations to Space Exploration and Everything In Between, Bent Flyvbjerg and Dan Gardner explore why projects—both large and small—often fail. The authors highlight examples of megaprojects, including the Empire State Building in New York City, the Guggenheim Bilbao in Spain, and the Sydney Opera House in Australia, as well as smaller-scale endeavors like home kitchen renovations. One critical reason for failure is the lack of clarity about a project’s goals, especially when multiple stakeholders are involved. Establishing a clear and informed understanding of a project’s purpose is foundational to its success. Another common pitfall is basing project estimates on best-case scenarios. The authors critique this overly optimistic approach and advocate for reference-class forecasting (RCF), a method used in countries such as the United States, China, Australia, South Africa, Ireland, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. Reference-class forecasting offers a more accurate framework for planning and execution, but its adoption faces significant hurdles: Many organizations are reluctant to provide stakeholders with realistic projections of costs and timelines. The “uniqueness bias” leads individuals to believe their projects are exceptional and incomparable. The data-intensive nature of reference-class forecasting makes it time-consuming to implement. In addition to addressing these challenges, How Big Things Get Done provides valuable takeaways. For example, modularization—breaking projects into manageable, repeatable units—can be particularly effective in tackling transformative initiatives like climate change mitigation. The authors emphasize the importance of exhaustive planning paired with swift delivery, which minimizes the time window for disruptive events or “black swans” to occur. Another key factor is assembling an efficient, mission-aligned team. The authors stress that politics often play an inevitable role in large-scale projects due to the high stakes and competing interests involved. They caution project managers against using terms like “new,” “unique,” or “bespoke” as selling points, arguing that such language often leads to inflated costs and complexity. The authors encourage readers to “think slowly but act fast”—to fail quickly and learn swiftly during project execution. They remind us that projects are not ends in themselves but means to achieve broader objectives. For instance, people build skyscrapers, host conferences, develop products, or write books to accomplish greater goals, not for the sake of the projects alone. By incorporating tools such as reference-class forecasting, risk management, modularization, and Disney’s Pixar-style planning, project managers can significantly enhance their chances of success. Yet, even with these strategies, delays and budget overruns remain global challenges. How Big Things Get Done offers invaluable insights and serves as a timely, perhaps urgent, read as world leaders and planners grapple with increasingly complex and ambitious projects. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/making-sense-of-chaos monthly 0.5 2024-11-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/366edb82-cb32-41cb-a964-f523df8d1a5f/IMG_0666.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Making Sense of Chaos J. Doyne Farmer argues that while AI and statistical models are useful in economics, they are inherently limited because past events rarely mirror present circumstances, and the world is constantly evolving. His research focuses on economics, particularly agent-based modeling, financial instability, and technological progress. In Making Sense of Chaos: A Better Economics for a Better World, Farmer emphasizes that statistical analysis can help us understand the present but can infer future trends only if underlying behaviors remain consistent. He advocates for complexity economics, which analyzes networks of balance sheets from the bottom up, treating the economy as a dynamic system using “as-is” reasoning rather than hypothetical “as-if” models. Unlike traditional models, complexity economics builds from the granular interactions between agents, emphasizing dynamic systems and the inherent uncertainty of economic behaviors. Making Sense of Chaos challenges mainstream economics for its inability to provide reliable quantitative insights, particularly when dealing with inequality and climate change. He argues that complexity economics, which incorporates uncertainty, presents an appealing alternative for tackling significant challenges like climate change, where many outcomes are unknowable and probabilities cannot be accurately assigned. Farmer is optimistic about the potential of complexity economics to address the global economy, though he acknowledges that obtaining comprehensive data remains a challenge. In Part V of Making Sense of Chaos, Farmer envisions a future where agent-based models of the global economy, integrated with environmental, sociological, and political models, can drive transformative policy solutions. He argues that advances in cloud computing and data technology could make these envisioned models a reality, enabling unprecedented reliability in economic modeling. Farmer concludes that adopting complexity economics will require overcoming academic resistance and leveraging big data to its fullest potential. Ultimately, Farmer’s vision in Making Sense of Chaos challenges us to rethink economic modeling by embracing complexity and uncertainty. His work demonstrates that our current tools barely scratch the surface of what is possible and offers hope for addressing humanity’s most pressing challenges through a revolutionary approach to understanding the global economy. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/the-changing-world-order monthly 0.5 2024-11-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/5665f580-e4be-4e8b-9ddd-7e35ca124607/image0.jpeg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - The Changing World Order In Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order, Ray Dalio explores the history of global power shifts over the past 500 years, focusing on the rise and fall of the Dutch, British, and American reserve currency empires and the past 1,400 years of Chinese dynasties. Dalio brings readers into the present, drawing historical insights into wealth, power, and stability dynamics. The book emphasizes that regions with vast wealth gaps, heavy debt, and declining incomes are most prone to conflict. Readers gain insights into eight key determinants of national success and decline: education, competitiveness, innovation and technology, economic output, share of world trade, military strength, financial center strength, and reserve currency status. Dalio argues that human productivity drives global wealth, power, and living standards over time. He frames major historical events through this lens, including: The Commercial Revolution (1100s - 1500s) The Renaissance (1300s - 1600s) The Age of Exploration and Colonialism (1400s–1700s) The Reformation (1517 - 1648) The New World Order following the Thirty Years’ War (1648) The Invention of Capitalism (1600s) The Scientific Revolution (1500s - 1600s) The First Industrial Revolution (1700s–1800s) The Enlightenment and the Age of Revolutions (1600s - 1700s) The Napoleonic Wars and the New World Order that Followed (1803–1815) The Pax Britannica and the Second Industrial Revolution (1850s–early 1900s) The Invention of Communism (1848) Dalio also identifies critical cycles influencing history: the cycle of financial health and instability, the cycle of internal order and disorder (driven by wealth and value divides), the cycle of external order and disorder (influenced by global competitiveness), the pace of innovation and technological progress, and acts of nature, such as droughts, floods, and pandemics Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order also delves into the cultural and strategic contrasts between the U.S. and China. Americans are depicted as more impulsive and tactical, fighting for present goals, while Chinese strategies often focus on long-term objectives. Dalio links China’s historical experiences—particularly the "Century of Humiliation" and foreign invasions—with its modern emphasis on sovereignty and unity. He suggests that China's mix of communism and capitalism has driven remarkable economic progress over the past 40 years. Dalio warns that the ongoing tech and economic decoupling between China and the U.S. will reshape global dynamics in the coming years, with China’s rapid technological advancements posing a particular challenge to U.S. dominance. Dalio presents key takeaways and practical advice: Having clear markers of where a country or state is within its rise-and-decline cycle helps individuals and nations to adapt better. Financial strength, particularly the ability to outspend rivals, is crucial for sustained power. Borrowing in one’s own currency can drive productivity if invested wisely; however, excessive debt and deficits can backfire if not managed responsibly. Demagoguery and scapegoating often foreshadow social instability, as does raising taxes and cutting spending during periods of economic stress. Tariffs, while protective of domestic jobs, ultimately reduce efficiency and harm global economic strength. Asset values are inversely related to the cost of money and credit; thus, asset investments are often wise during periods of central bank stimulus. Deferred gratification and associating with intellectually diverse thinkers help in long-term personal and professional growth. Ultimately, Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order provides a thorough analysis of historical cycles to help readers better anticipate future trends. Dalio connects global events, economies, and markets to reveal how understanding history can inform strategic foresight. This book is a compelling resource for those seeking practical insights as it offers a robust framework for interpreting today’s world affairs and economies. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/power-and-progress monthly 0.5 2024-09-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/32f52af2-567f-417e-a9dc-2508225472d1/IMG_8916.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Power & Progress Technology leaders are captivated by AI’s potential to reshape society economically, politically, and socially. While many are influenced by these visions, an alternative view argues that automation and data collection primarily benefit those controlling digital technologies. In Power and Progress: Our Thousand-Year Struggle Over Technology and Prosperity, Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson demonstrate that globalization and automation have worked in tandem, driven by the desire to reduce labor costs and marginalize workers. Their research shows how AI can increase average productivity but may reduce workers' marginal productivity (additional output produced from adding one more worker, while holding all other inputs constant), thus reinforcing inequality rather than promoting shared prosperity. Power and Progress shows that similar claims of machines replicating human intelligence generated great hype in the 1950s as well. The authors challenge today’s belief in the so-called "productivity bandwagon"—the idea that increased productivity from technology will automatically raise wages and improve living standards. This phenomenon, they argue, cannot materialize if the market does not enhance both workers' marginal productivity and their bargaining power. One of the book’s more striking claims is that the current trajectory of AI could reverse decades of economic progress in the developing world by exporting automation globally. The book also emphasizes the need for government policies to reform the U.S. tax system, which currently favors capital over labor by imposing lower effective taxes on capital earnings than on labor income. The authors propose bold reforms, such as significantly reducing—or even fully eliminating—payroll taxes, arguing that raising the cost of labor is counterproductive in today's economy. They advocate for modest increases in capital taxes, noting that many industrialized economies’ current tax systems encourage automation. Additionally, the authors call for stronger user privacy protections, emphasizing that platforms that collect vast amounts of user data create a significant power imbalance. To address these challenges, they recommend investing in workers through vocational training and continuing education, and urge government leadership in steering the direction of technological development. Lastly, the book underscores the importance of a more independent academia, as universities play a central role in shaping the perspectives, interests, and skills of young people who will work in the technology sector. Some key takeaways and predictions about AI from the book include: AI’s most significant likely impact is to further lower wages for many people, rather than creating a completely workless future. Tasks that involve the social and situational aspects of human cognition will continue to pose formidable challenges for machine intelligence. Although AI fails to deliver on many of its promises, it still manages to reduce the demand for workers. When humans are not as dispensable as often presumed, and intelligent machines are not as capable as typically assumed, we get what the authors call "so-so automation." Human-complementary machines are not appealing to organizations focused on cost-cutting. The tech community did not need to be captivated by machine intelligence alone but could have focused on machine usefulness. China remains a follower in most frontier technologies, and redirection efforts in the United States and Europe will significantly impact global technological trends. The insights from Power and Progress are essential reading for anyone concerned about the future of technology and its impact on society. The book offers a critical roadmap for redirecting technological innovation towards shared prosperity, emphasizing the need for intentional policy changes and societal shifts. By focusing on a more equitable approach to automation and AI, the authors provide a powerful guide for ensuring that future technological advancements benefit the many, rather than deepening inequalities and leaving workers behind. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/how-the-blood-of-the-congo-powers-our-lives monthly 0.5 2024-11-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/cdf4b8a4-26e8-4f27-9584-3c95f1bd78ab/IMG_8546.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - How The Blood Of The Congo Powers Our Lives The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) ranks 175 out of 189 on the United Nations Human Development Index, with over three-quarters of its population living below the poverty line. Despite this, the DRC’s wealth in cobalt—a byproduct of copper mining and a rare metal essential for lithium-ion rechargeable batteries used in smartphones, tablets, laptops, and electric vehicles (EVs)—offers a glimmer of hope for development. However, the potential prosperity from cobalt mining is overshadowed by the severe exploitation and human suffering associated with its extraction, making it unlikely that the DRC will truly benefit from this valuable resource. Cobalt Red: How the Blood of the Congo Powers Our Lives by Siddharth Kara is an urgent, heartbreaking, and timely book that calls for immediate humanitarian action while highlighting the economic and geopolitical significance of these so-called strategic and rare earth elements used in modern technology and renewable energy. Cobalt Red reveals how the complex and opaque layers of multinational supply chains obscure the harsh realities of cobalt mining in the Congo. Congolese children, women, and men are forced to dig for cobalt under extreme conditions, earning as little as four or five dollars a day. Kara surveys multiple miners, uncovering a hidden world of artisanal mining in the DRC. Artisanal mining (ASM)—informal operations carried out by individuals, families, or small groups using simple tools and techniques—is labor-intensive and lacks the sophisticated equipment of larger, more formal mining operations. Kara also highlights the vertical integration of Chinese companies across the cobalt supply chain and China’s current monopoly—a significant geopolitical concern for the U.S. and the EU. Cobalt Red also touches on historical events, including the exploitation by King Leopold II, European invasions and the slave trade (1482-1884), and Africa’s Great War. The DRC has endured coups driven by the desire for control over its mineral wealth, leading to further bloodshed. As power struggles continue within the country, a major geopolitical and economic decision looms: will the DRC align more closely with China or the U.S.? Whether this choice will lead to improvements in the lives of the nation’s artisanal miners remains uncertain. Kara argues that as long as the political elite continue the tradition of government-as-theft established by their colonial predecessors, the people of the Congo will continue to suffer. He also criticizes stakeholders up the supply chain for refusing to accept responsibility, a major issue faced by the Congo’s artisanal miners. As Cobalt Red concludes, readers are confronted with the murkiness at the bottom of the cobalt supply chain. For centuries, the Congolese people have endured slavery and violence, and the cobalt rush is the latest threat adding to their misery. The book ends with a letter from Patrice Lumumba, the nation’s greatest freedom fighter and first prime minister, who was assassinated in 1961. While Lumumba’s vision for his country was grand, Siddharth Kara’s Cobalt Red leaves readers questioning whether the DRC will ever escape the shadows and the curse of its strategic metal—cobalt. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/the-prize-the-epic-quest-for-oil-money-amp-power monthly 0.5 2024-11-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/37d2b38e-43bd-4b4a-a09f-9b2e4e0c9f68/IMG_5502.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - The Prize - The Epic Quest for Oil, Money & Power Goldman Sachs Research expects oil demand to peak at 110 million barrels a day by 2034. In a scenario with slower EV adoption, oil demand could even increase to 113 million barrels a day by 2040. The rise of renewable energy is reshaping the global energy landscape; however, it takes time to implement policies around renewable energies. When predicting oil demand, one cannot overlook the history of oil and geopolitical risks. Oil provides the point at which foreign policy, international economic considerations, national security, and corporate interests converge. For those interested in the origin of the oil revolution and how the world revolves around oil, "The Prize - The Epic Quest for Oil, Money & Power" by Daniel Yergin is a starting point for understanding how energy will shape the world of tomorrow. Daniel Yergin, an author on energy and world affairs, was named America’s most influential energy pundit by The New York Times. His award-winning and rigorous research for "The Prize" begins with the drilling of the first well by Colonel Edwin Drake in Pennsylvania in 1859. The book then covers numerous historic events and principles, including: Oil Concession of Saudi-Aramco (50/50) The Suez Crisis David Ricardo’s rent and tenant principle The Mexican Expropriation The Sherman Antitrust Act The Tehran Agreement The formation of OPEC The Tripoli Agreement The creation of the International Energy Agency The North-South Dialogue in 1977 The October War Teapot Dome Scandal Mexican Nationalism The Iranian Hostage Crisis The Gulf Crisis "The Prize" highlights that managing an integrated oil system is a highly complex matter even under calm and relatively predictable circumstances. Yergin articulates two contradictory strands of public policy toward the major oil companies that have appeared and reappeared in the United States. He bluntly writes: “On occasion, Washington would champion the companies and their expansion in order to promote America’s political and economic interests, protect its strategic objectives, and enhance the nation’s wellbeing. At other times, these same companies were subjected to populist assaults against ‘big oil’ for their allegedly greedy, monopolistic ways and indeed for being arrogant and secretive.” One of the major themes of "The Prize" is the continuing struggle between consumers and producers over the money and power that accrue from petroleum resources. Yergin dissects this ongoing struggle by examining three major oil shocks: 1973-1974 1979-1981 1985-1986 Yergin's meticulous research and engaging narrative make this book a must-read for anyone interested in energy, geopolitics, and the economic forces that drive our world. As we transition to renewable energy sources, the lessons and insights from the book remain relevant, reminding us of the intricate and often tumultuous relationship between energy and global affairs. "The Prize" is a monumental work that provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of oil's critical role in shaping modern history and its implications for the future. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/the-return-of-geopolitics monthly 0.5 2025-12-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/bfba6981-a00b-4dbe-8f9a-fe04efc8ca58/IMG_4870.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - The Return of Geopolitics - The Return of Geopolitics - A Global Quest for the Right Side of History is a collection of essays that explore the evolution and contemporary relevance of geopolitics across different historical epochs. Contributors of these essays include professors, researchers, historians, authors, scholars, journalists, editors, and practitioners whose diverse perspectives form a rich tapestry of geopolitical discourse. Supplemented by evocative photographs, the essays offer visual insights into the dynamic shifts of global geopolitics. Below are some views shared in the book: A key dimension in which geopolitics is useful is that of the global scale, but geopolitics is also of crucial value in the understanding of particular states and communities, their character, composition, development, and interactions. When Russia feels its geopolitical interests are threatened, it has proven willing to break international law and take big risks. Geopolitics isn’t just about foreign policy or strategy, but also domestic politics and political culture. History doesn't repeat itself; it just comes back in different – and surprising – guises. China typically makes no demands that its allies comply with international norms of human rights or other responsible behavior. China’s natural allies are, as a result, often bad international actors, as the examples of Iran, North Korea, and Syria make clear. It could be argued that the current revival of interest in geopolitics among academics and practitioners also reflects the arrival of another age of insecure and unpredictable transformation in the world order. Geostrategic conflict is inevitable, but mutual economic interdependence can help manage that conflict and keep it from spiraling out of control. Thomas Jefferson said that the price of liberty is eternal vigilance. The price of diversity, it seems, is enhanced surveillance. The worst mistake you can make in politics is to judge something by its intentions, rather than its outcomes. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/identity-politics monthly 0.5 2024-11-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/7d00d35f-e7bb-47fa-829c-ec858674edf0/Fareed.png BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Complexities of Identity - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/king-of-diamonds monthly 0.5 2024-03-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/c06c0c15-0eaf-49d7-8314-683f6b3c0ed1/IMG_4183.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - King of Diamonds I stepped into the Argosy Book Store to view some collections of antique books. At the cashier counter, to my surprise, I discovered a pile of newly released books titled King of Diamonds: HARRY WINSTON - The Definitive Biography of an American Icon. Intrigued by the title and the familiar name of HARRY WINSTON, a famous diamond store on Fifth Avenue, I felt compelled to purchase the book. King of Diamonds is authored by Ronald Winston, the older son of Harry Winston, alongside William Stadiem. The book eloquently traces Harry Winston's journey, chronicling his transformation from a young Jewish immigrant, who escaped Ukraine around 1890, to the eponymous monarch of diamonds in New York City. Central to his success were three pillars: knowledge, courage, and financial acumen. By 1925, Harry Winston had surpassed even his loftiest aspirations, yet his insatiable drive propelled him ever onward, yearning for greater heights. While King of Diamonds narrates extravagant dinners with high-profile clients, it also reveals a poignant absence of warmth and familial bonds, particularly between Harry and his two sons – Ronald Winston and Bruce Winston. I do wonder how the narrative might differ had the book been authored by Harry himself, rather than his older son Ronald. A highlight of the book lies in its exploration of the intersection between diamonds and geopolitics, offering insights into the global appetite for these precious gems. From wartime intrigue to the corridors of power in New York City, King of Diamonds paints a vivid picture of an era defined by opulence and ambition. Ronald Winston's narrative voice reflects a palpable yearning to carve out his own identity, distinct from the shadow cast by his father's legacy. While he may not have inherited his father’s audacity and tenacity, Ronald's candid account offers readers a glimpse into the complexities of navigating life in the wake of a towering figure. The conclusion of the book delves into the legal battles between Ronald and Bruce, which lead to the unraveling of the empire their father painstakingly built. Overall, King of Diamonds showcases the challenges posed by the weight of familial legacy and sibling rivalry intertwined with the allure of the world of diamonds. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/poverty-by-america monthly 0.5 2023-12-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/6d3180a3-85cb-4f59-bbdc-5eb14557763d/IMG_2512.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Poverty, by America Matthew Desmond, a distinguished professor of sociology at Princeton University and the principal investigator of The Eviction Lab, is known for his extensive research on poverty in America, racial inequality, city life, and housing insecurity. He asserts that America cannot truly embody freedom until it confronts the morally urgent issue of poverty. The American public seems to believe the poor should change their behavior to escape poverty. However, as Matthew fiercely argued, it is economic security that leads to better choices. In his latest book – Poverty, by America – Desmond draws upon historical insights and research to educate readers about the traumatic nature of poverty and the American welfare state as a leaky bucket. He then advocates for readers to adopt the role of poverty abolitionists. Poverty, by America illustrates how America’s welfare policies have an anti-family design. A case in point is the supplemental security income (SSI), where checks are docked if recipients live with relatives. Readers will learn more about how personal incomes in America have increased by 317 percent over the past fifty years, and yet federal revenue has increased by only 252 percent. Desmond elucidates how personal fortunes have outpaced public funds which eventually choke public investments. By 2021, government spending on all public goods made up just 17.6 percent of GDP. The narrative then delves into how corporations increasingly relying on independent contractors and temps have depressed wages. For instance, tech companies like Google and Apple save an average of $100,000 per job annually by employing temps and contractors. Poverty, by America extensively investigates the rise of Buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) companies like Afterpay and Klarna, alongside emerging online financial services capitalizing on the financial insecurity of the poor. Matthew’s research unveils staggering figures: an excess of $11 billion in overdraft fees, $1.6 billion in check cashing fees, and up to $9.8 billion in payday loan fees annually. The book addresses how certain votes or decisions disproportionately harm the poor: Most Americans want the country to build more public housing for low-income families, but they do not want that public housing in their neighborhoods. The Earned Income Tax Credit and the Housing Choice Voucher Program rescue millions of families from a social ill, but they do nothing to address the root cause. The Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and claw back to the national right to abortion will have devastating consequences for poor women. When lawmakers have tried to curb pollution and traffic gridlock through congestion pricing, it would hit low-income workers the hardest. The summary of Poverty, by America ultimately underscores the need for sharing opportunities, where those who benefitted from the nation’s excesses will have to take less so that others may share in the bounty. As Desmond echoes in the book, readers will understand poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/microchips-are-the-new-oil monthly 0.5 2024-11-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/14980a26-e6d6-4c31-a37a-26cc1de29132/image0.jpeg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Microchips Are The New Oil. The extraordinary inventions by exceptional minds such as Jack Kilby, John Bardeen, Walter Brattain, Mohamed Atalla, Dawon Kahng, Charlie Sporck, Andras Grof, Andy Groove, Bob Noyce, Morris Chang, Pat Haggerty, Gordon Moore, Carver Mead, and many others have fundamentally shaped the world’s reliance on semiconductors. Chris Miller’s Chip War: The Fight for the World's Most Critical Technology delves into the intricate details of how integrated chips did not only connect electronic components in innovative ways but also how chips knit together nations in a network, with the United States at its center. In Chip War, readers embark on a journey through the creation of Silicon Valley and the evolution of computing. The book meticulously outlines how U.S. companies, notably Fairchild and Texas Instruments, entered the mid-1960s to transform chips into a mass-market commodity. Post World War II, defense officials in Washington adopted a policy that favored a strong Japan over a weak Japan, facilitating technology transfers throughout the 1960s. Japan’s rapid technological progress had caught everyone by surprise. As elucidated in Chip War, Fairchild emerged as the first semiconductor firm to offshore assembly in Asia, where a vast population of peasant farmers were looking for factory jobs. Taiwan’s foreign policy strategically incorporated semiconductor plant attraction to foster more economic ties with the United States and also to ensure a protective buffer against Beijing’s influence. In 1968, Texas Instrument’s board of directors approved the construction of a new facility in Taiwan. Since then, Taiwan has become an irreplaceable partner to Silicon Valley. A similar strategy unfolded in Singapore in 1974, echoing the policy of hosting U.S. semiconductor plants to fortify political stability. Chip War includes chapters on how the emergence of new MBA and Ph.D. CEOs taking over America’s semiconductor firms in the 2000s and 2010s had influenced the transfer of technology. Transitioning into the current era, the book sheds light on China’s leadership recognizing their vulnerability reliant on foreign chipmakers and setting out a plan to rework the world’s chip industry. The book speculates the potential impact on U.S. foreign policy should China choose to exert greater control over Taiwan. As Charlie Sporck, known for his successful role in the history of Silicon Valley remarked: We are in nowheresville without semiconductors. Chip War indeed is a significant book at the intersection of geopolitics and semiconductor technology. Chris Miller’s meticulous research provides readers with invaluable insights into Intel, Micron Technology, ASML, Huawei, AMD, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Apple, among others. Highly recommended for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of how microchips are the new oil. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/burmese-haze monthly 0.5 2023-11-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/23404e63-c581-428f-bb49-2d0b76f14af8/IMG_1947.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Burmese Haze Growing up in Burma, I was aware that the country was under a dictatorship. However, my understanding of Burma’s intricate political landscape was limited. Cyclone Nargis, Burma’s worst natural disaster in early May 2008, and the Saffron Revolution, various peaceful protests led by Buddhist monks, students, and political activists in 2007 remain vivid in my mind. I left Burma for the U.S. at the end of 2009, at a time when Burma was already undergoing the potential for political and economic transformations. Recently, I read Burmese Haze: US Policy and Myanmar’s Opening – and Closing by former intelligence analyst Erin Murphy, which triggered nostalgic recollections of my childhood and Burma. Burmese Haze takes readers on an emotional journey to Burma (Myanmar) – a nation deeply entrenched in long-standing and intricate political turmoil. The book comprises seven chapters that elucidate how ethnic diversity in Burma drives politics, conflict, and identity. It sheds light on the challenges and offers insights into Washington’s handling of Burma’s complexities across the Clinton, Bush, Obama, Trump, and Biden Administrations. The book presents significant moments in diplomatic history, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s trip to the U.S., President Barack Obama’s historic visit to Burma, and then-Secretary of State Hilary Clinon’s trip. Seamlessly blending personal and political insights, Burmese Haze draws on Murphy’s extensive knowledge and her personal journey navigating Burma. Murphy expresses that Burma is rich in every sense of the word: history, people, natural resources, and culture. But it is mired in poverty. As the title suggests, the book reflects on the cyclical nature of Burma’s history and its struggle toward democratic transition. One might ponder if and why the world has forgotten about Burma. Murphy gives readers hope, underscoring the unwavering support of countries like the U.S. advocating for Burma’s potential to achieve democratic transitioning. Burmese Haze reminds readers of the arduous journey toward democracy and emphasizes the enduring nature of hope. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/wealth-happiness-and-greed monthly 0.5 2023-11-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/dfd97eb1-b707-43b3-87b8-bf3a1c9f5d46/IMG_1637.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Wealth, Happiness, and Greed Morgan Housel is a partner at the Collaborative Fund. He was previously a columnist at The Wall Street Journal. He is a two-time winner of the Best in Business Award from the Society of American Business Editors and Writers, the New York Times Sidney Award, and a two-time finalist for the Gerald Loeb Award for Distinguished Business Writing. Barry Ritholtz, a host of Bloomberg Radio’s Masters in Business, names Morgan Housel as the most popular writer in finance today. In his book, The Psychology of Money, Housel offers valuable insights on wealth, happiness, and greed. The book examines how people behave with money and emphasizes the importance of understanding psychology, sociology, history, biology, and politics when learning about money management. There are 19 short chapters, each of which can be read independently. The book also identifies why people do not feel much happier even though they are richer than ever and explains the ability to control time is a key happiness influencer. The narrative underscores that using money to buy time and options has a lifestyle benefit few luxury goods can compete with. The Psychology of Money shares the story of Bill Gates’s wealth to examine the challenge of discerning between luck, skill, and risk – a major challenge in understanding the best approach to managing money. In 1968, Lakeside School in Seattle housed about 200 high-school-age students. The school had the combination of cash and foresight to acquire a computer. Bill Gates, by sheer luck, happened to be one of the few who experienced this one-in-a-million opportunity. While there is no doubt that Bill Gates is staggeringly smart and hardworking with a vision for computers, the book raises questions about the role of luck in building wealth. The book then illustrates the story of Warren Buffett as an example of how compounding plays a pivotal role in building wealth. Housel emphasizes a fundamental fact: Buffett’s fortune does not solely result from being a good investor, but from consistently investing for three quarters of a century. Being a savvy investor and managing finances well involves understanding that growth is driven by compounding, a process that always takes time. The Psychology of Money serves as a reminder that the most important aspect of every financial plan is preparing for a plan that might not go according to plan. The story about Bernie Madoff in the book elucidates why some of the most sophisticated investors in the world were ensnared in Bernie’s Ponzi scheme. The Psychology of Money features numerous stories and historical accounts of financial events that underscore the significance of savings, the reality that nothing comes for free, the importance of contentment, and the influence of pessimism. Upon finishing the book, it becomes evident that not all success comes from hard work and not all poverty is a result of laziness. Wealth, as described by Housel, is often hidden. The true value of wealth lies in the opportunities, flexibility, and control over time that afford you the option to change careers, retire early, or experience freedom from worry. Readers could benefit from this easily digestible finance book by Housel. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/is-a-better-life-possible monthly 0.5 2023-09-30 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/george-orwell-amp-chatgpt monthly 0.5 2023-09-15 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/rowing-against-the-tide monthly 0.5 2025-12-02 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/do-not-reinvent-the-wheel monthly 0.5 2023-07-21 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/1hpe5cudzjti7fe3owj27d0uuewa43 monthly 0.5 2023-07-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/ffad15ff-2a99-4654-952d-3252b9f99381/IMG_7729.JPG BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Journey from India to Singapore to Bangkok - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/reimaginingcapitalism monthly 0.5 2023-07-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/d1eb0aca-82e8-454e-ae30-66b7e512a88a/IMG_6729.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Reimagining Capitalism In A World On Fire - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/not-so-basic monthly 0.5 2025-12-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/936f03eb-ef9b-4c40-8caa-5bbcaf359d3a/Screenshot+2023-04-23+at+15.35.19.png BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Not So Basic - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/y7ci3gbeewppjri5y7mwd8mnxubdof monthly 0.5 2023-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/fb9d33d3-b5e9-40c1-8889-c29769d6497e/%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BF%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BF%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BF%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BF.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - We Don't Have To Like Each Other - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/we-need-a-new-social-contract monthly 0.5 2023-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/601871ac-8998-4ab0-952d-40e86060b89f/d5dc15_90ddfec20fb7400fb559cb58611e3cb0%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - We Need A New Social Contract! - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/cultural-differences monthly 0.5 2023-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/b741c1a5-a853-49fa-bcd9-d32a848e81c6/d5dc15_fa1a221f1a0049119c41ab715cbaccce%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Cultural Differences - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/exotic-beginning-but-mysterious-ending monthly 0.5 2023-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/fd3e2898-ef33-4612-b72a-e71e16cf297f/d5dc15_771706cd128143fd8f6d6148fbe9aa95%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Exotic Beginning but Mysterious Ending - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/when-we-were-orphans monthly 0.5 2023-11-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/4987f7bf-f4b4-4d7f-9090-a440617f3589/d5dc15_34faccadfc084bac8267e386022a64e4%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - When We Were Orphans - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/are-we-truly-in-this-together monthly 0.5 2023-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/b81c6ac4-90d1-403f-8349-b39a898a9604/d5dc15_5250d337740d46688ec564ebd48afd24%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Are We Truly In This Together? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/subliminal-decisions monthly 0.5 2023-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/40efddc2-fc03-4853-9a93-54a5f97f5a13/d5dc15_66548776955241c0b910501c6f2fa8e8%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Subliminal Decisions - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/the-world-a-brief-introduction monthly 0.5 2023-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/76cea243-0540-465a-88f1-0bd30da883a6/d5dc15_1e98de34852d402dade218138b2c8550%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - The World: A Brief Introduction - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/from-refugee-to-the-us-secretary-of-state monthly 0.5 2023-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/9a6b9b59-d326-468c-8640-7b39238b8321/d5dc15_edb377b8fd984e9898a731faa459bfc1%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - From Refugee to the U.S. Secretary of State - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/myanmars-longing-for-an-identity monthly 0.5 2023-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/4431f8a1-17c1-4a14-94e6-caea7d3b02e9/d5dc15_97276be63f1845d9a5b73adc97ea5312%7Emv2+%281%29.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Myanmar's Longing For An Identity - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/wild-cherry monthly 0.5 2023-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/b1f818ec-aac8-4bb1-979f-084e4de8aeaa/d5dc15_060fa6556ef74aa299d8125af518f62b%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Wild Cherry - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/healthier-wealthier-but-also-more-unequal monthly 0.5 2023-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/c0af7119-4eb4-43d8-bfdb-dc461c8b10b2/d5dc15_641d37ee49ec47e88ca8b1b9df514dba%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Healthier, Wealthier, but also More Unequal - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/you-are-a-stranger-to-me monthly 0.5 2023-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/0448e13d-a5c2-42bb-b70b-5639fa234a54/d5dc15_9693fc43c3ab4bafa8938af9d3800641%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - You Are A Stranger To Me. - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/not-your-typical-newspaper-boy monthly 0.5 2023-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/284d9cdd-f335-435e-95f0-4e74c911b8f7/d5dc15_b1e2b0260ba6415488fa0f46c891e52c%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Not Your Typical Newspaper Boy - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/the-origins-of-power-prosperity-and-poverty monthly 0.5 2023-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/6509d502-9d17-4dfd-bd4e-62a0c97f15bb/d5dc15_9cc155d4f17c41949fc8dca45ca249ab%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - The Origins Of Power, Prosperity, And Poverty - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/burma-an-enchanted-spirit monthly 0.5 2023-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/c32da3bd-8fa1-49ea-bd04-e11fbe01e2a5/d5dc15_3f526adb27a34602a52e09fc92d4a705%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Burma, An Enchanted Spirit - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/d62262de-b6b5-417f-8b00-6776d68f78d1/d5dc15_32c1e46c79f74b4f92d4a01673e4b8ac%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Burma, An Enchanted Spirit - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/do-you-believe-in-heaven monthly 0.5 2023-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/705c5b06-cd87-43d9-9775-7fac071e756d/d5dc15_bb2d2770f1d346fa8218e7908516b74d%7Emv2+%281%29.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Do You Believe In Heaven? - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/what-well-eat-in-a-bigger-hotter-smarter-world monthly 0.5 2023-07-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/618eff08-2350-47d0-ad9e-97ba884b60e3/d5dc15_024c978a220e487ea9623b0b9e0d2e50%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - What We'll Eat in a Bigger, Hotter, Smarter World - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/poetry-belongs-to-all monthly 0.5 2023-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/c64aab92-2c95-4aa4-92cc-bc3c64ac4f67/d5dc15_10f8a6e021444f7bb2b2383a69ebb4da%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Poetry Belongs To All... - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/unexpected-letter monthly 0.5 2023-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/c7e25752-7330-4db5-aa16-f582255cb056/d5dc15_067e479b1abd497eb58b361a3a8feb27%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - Unexpected Letter - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/no-longer-a-child monthly 0.5 2023-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/b897d5b6-2944-4cae-957a-bb83bed8f395/d5dc15_39c9cba75d0247a1bfe06f5fae4a9ace%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - No Longer A Child - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/how-the-wicked-world-was-made monthly 0.5 2023-06-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/9f3a2207-ad74-45e8-b16b-9fbdc26e1742/d5dc15_de9d0a634dea417d8fa292c9fd7bb786%7Emv2.jpg BOOK REVIEWS BY THINZAR - How The Wicked World Was Made - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Economics monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Novel monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Literature monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Government monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Finance monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Geopolitics monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Global+Affairs+%26+Business monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Management monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/History monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Political+Science monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Global+Supply+Chain monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/International+Development monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Trade monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Political+Economy monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Technology monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Biography monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Non-Fiction monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Global+Development monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Social+Policy monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Business+%26+International+Relations monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/book-reviews-by-thinzar/category/Communication monthly 0.5 https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar daily 0.75 2025-11-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/2e3fcddb-0ffb-41a9-9e81-bf6e719fba2b/IMG_6155.JPG https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/bigger-picture monthly 0.5 2025-09-23 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/a34ae9fb-f354-4a4b-8265-32766c634d77/Tezza-4451.JPG THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Seeing the Bigger Picture As each season ends, I like to take the time to reflect and recommit to my dreams. This time, I want to reflect on what it truly means to see the bigger picture. A couple of weeks ago, one of my projects didn’t come through. At first, I felt discouraged, thinking my hard work was wasted. But then I remembered that the point of life is about dreaming big, trying new things, falling, getting back up, and learning along the way. During a recent trip to the beach, standing at the shore, I could only see the ocean before me. From the balcony above, I was amazed by the vastness and beauty of the unfolding horizon. It metaphorically reminded me how important it is to elevate our perspective. Seeing the bigger picture shows how life unfolds naturally. It also reveals how setbacks and lessons shape our lives, easing the weight of struggles. There will always be challenges, moments of doubt, and quiet, endless work behind the scenes. Yet with every new season comes a fresh opportunity to reassess, reinvent, and recommit to life by seeing the bigger picture. How do you see the bigger picture? WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: Miami, Florida https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/the-space-between monthly 0.5 2025-07-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/222c7763-b497-44a0-a53b-3874bead5dd6/IMG_6218.JPG THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - The Space Between A lot can happen in a month. After spending the past month away from home, for both pleasure and work, I have returned with a full mind and a full heart, processing thoughts and experiences. These are the subtle shifts in perspective that only time and distance can bring. And I would like to share them with you as a reminder. The month I was away, June, felt like a natural midpoint in the year: clean, symmetrical, and perfectly suited for reflection. I have decided to start viewing the year in two halves. It feels more manageable than placing pressure on a single, year-long timeline. We can plan all we want, but life often unfolds in unexpected ways. Giving ourselves space to reflect, pivot, and realign is a small but meaningful shift. Breaking the year into two also offers more opportunities to celebrate progress, rather than waiting until the New Year to acknowledge growth. I now see June as the space between where I am and where I want to be. It is a canvas. This mindset helps ease the pressure I place on myself and reminds me that we each follow our own timeline. It is worth it to pause. To reflect. To look back—and then forward. Because it’s in that space between that powerful reflection happens. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: Urbino, Italy https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/these-are-our-days monthly 0.5 2025-05-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/f41ccb5c-8154-47a9-89ba-72fadc672c5a/IMG_4655.jpg THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - These Are Our Days. I once read that everyone needs a place where there is nothing to hear but themselves. For me, that place is writing. Putting thoughts into words creates space and order in my mind. Writing is also how I process emotions. That’s why I maintain Thoughts by Thinzar on my website to create that space not just for myself, but for anyone who might find something in my words too. So, I invite you to pause and reflect with me. We are nearly halfway through the year. As summer draws near, I have been thinking about the seasons of life—and how closely they mirror the life cycle of flowers. There are seasons of nurturing, blooming, stillness, and letting go. We often focus on the bloom—the visible progress, the peak moments. But we rarely talk about the beauty of the nurturing phase. It’s in these quieter, sometimes uncomfortable stretches that we care for our thoughts, emotions, and inner resilience. I often want to skip these hard parts and rush toward the bloom, the moment where things make sense again. Maybe you feel that too. But the more I stay with discomfort, the more I uncover strength and meaning in simply being present—especially during the uncertain seasons. We can't afford to wish this time away just because we're waiting for the next moment of bloom. Wouldn’t you agree? Because these—right here, right now— are OUR days. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: New York City, NY https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/intentions monthly 0.5 2024-12-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/d7066a90-8787-469f-a600-668a0eca321f/IMG_0781.JPG THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Year-End Reflections The second half of 2024 became a season of deliberate preparation for two major projects I’m pursuing in 2025. This period reinforced an important truth for me: to achieve meaningful goals, parts of our old selves must often give way, as our new selves hold greater potential. One key lesson I embraced is that there’s no such thing as instant gratification when it comes to meaningful progress. Good planning is intentional, just as a fulfilling life is built with thoughtfulness and care. Intentionality isn’t an afterthought; it’s the foundation of this extraordinary journey we call life. I also took a closer look at how I spend my time and the activities I engage in. Learning to say “no” to certain activities has become a way to honor my core values, ensuring that my actions align with what truly matters. It’s not always easy, but it is essential not to succumb to the constant distractions of the world. I wrote this reflection as a reminder that there’s nothing wrong with striving for more in life—more meaning, more fulfillment, and deeper alignment with our best selves. In a world where so many face turmoil and lack the opportunities to pursue their goals, those of us fortunate enough to have such privileges bear a responsibility to realize our full potential. This perspective strengthens my resolve to live intentionally and purposefully—not just for myself, but to honor the opportunities that so many others are denied. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: Punta Cana, The Dominican Republic https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/hope monthly 0.5 2024-12-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/35bd593c-4d87-4d90-8577-c5f037d1aa44/IMG_9030.JPG THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Hope I have been reflecting deeply on human resilience and hope lately. With the barrage of troubling news and ongoing global crises, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the disarray in the world. Acknowledging this chaos is necessary, but it is equally important to recognize the hope and resilience that persist among humanity. While I may find it easier to express this perspective from a place free of active wars, severe climate crises, and violence, I am aware of the struggles faced by many. It is critical to remind one another that, despite these challenges, hope can endure. Here, I share Emily Dickinson’s poem "Hope" to serve as a poignant reminder of this truth: “Hope” is the thing with feathers That perches in the soul And sings the tune without the words And never stops - at all And sweetest - in the Gale - is heard And sore must be the storm That could abash the little Bird That kept so many warm I’ve heard it in the chillest land And on the strangest Sea Yet - never - in Extremity, It asked a crumb - of me. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: Miami, Florida https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/ever-forward monthly 0.5 2024-04-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/a1f9220e-03b2-4cb2-9d9f-693a4d203d72/IMG_4886.JPG THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Ever Forward From my own journey, I've come to understand that reinventing oneself is a challenging and daunting task. It demands time and mental strength, yet it offers the opportunity for profound self-expression and fulfillment. This transformative process isn't about competing with others but rather with our potential. With each passing year, accumulated wisdom and self-improvement foster a reservoir of positive life energy and creative momentum. The pace of modern life often propels us forward relentlessly, leaving little room for reflection and reinvention unless we deliberately carve out time for it. The discipline required to reshape one’s life trajectory is frequently overlooked and rarely taught, particularly in an era where instant gratification is favored. However, the courage to embrace the unknown and opt for delayed gratification paves the way for sustainable success. After all, remaining in one’s comfort zone simply stifles personal growth and subjects one as a victim of circumstances. Age should not be a barrier to reinvention, and the regret of not pursuing one's fullest potential may prove more profound in the long run. Ever forward! WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: Central Park, NY https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/leaning-in-with-winters monthly 0.5 2024-04-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/d726cd0f-8676-40a7-871b-d7cb3f52042a/image0.jpeg THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Leaning In With Winters Experiencing the four seasons is a great life experience, with each season bringing its unique beauty. However, winters can prove challenging both mentally and physically, especially when the nights grow darker earlier and the cold sets in. Winter days often seem to lack progression. During this season, I sometimes find myself lacking energy and experiencing fluctuations of sadness. There are moments I feel unsettled and restless for no apparent reason. I long for the return of sunny skies and the resumption of outdoor activities. Yet, I have also come to realize more that resisting these feelings only exacerbates the situation. Winters have taught me the value of accepting the quietude of the season. Self-care becomes more crucial in winter. There are various forms of self-care, and mine during the winter involves treating myself to flowers, indulging in facial treatments at home, or simply reading poetry. Interestingly, these activities align with the quiet, introspective nature of winter – they allow me to conserve energy and await the renewal of life. As winter gives way to brighter days ahead, I reflect on the importance of accepting the inherent slowness of this season. The winter season can also symbolize the hardships of life. We learn that no hardships last forever and that the seasons of our lives are ever-changing and evolving. We also learn to adapt and develop the resilience to face life's winters and dark days with active acceptance and mental strength. As Yoko Ono once said: Winter passes, and one remembers one’s perseverance. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: Centerport, NY https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/certainty-and-belonging monthly 0.5 2024-02-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/332c038e-3d9b-4984-9dc6-c29c0769cdb0/IMG_3892.JPG THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Certainty and Belonging In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to lose sight of the profound experience of being fully present in the moment. This state of presence, a cornerstone of mindfulness teachings, offers us a deep sense of certainty and belonging. I recently was reminded of the power of presence while attending a dance performance. Observing the dancers, I marveled at how they synchronized with the rhythm to craft their movements, fully inhabiting the present. There was a complete absorption in the act, a state of flow where nothing else existed for them. In those moments, they embodied their truest selves, free from distractions or daydreams. Even a brief dance performance lasting mere minutes felt like an eternity, such was the intensity of their presence. It was as though each moment expanded to fill a significant portion of life itself. I found myself admiring these dancers as they reached their pinnacle of belonging and certainty. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: New York City, NY https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/who-is-in-your-arena monthly 0.5 2024-02-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/5307c589-1b40-4c53-a914-f332eb2dba23/IMG_2326.JPG THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Who Is In Your Arena? Having a reliable mentor is an invaluable asset. The guidance and insights a mentor provides may not always seem immediately applicable, but their wisdom often proves crucial later in life. In the past, I pursued mentors without fully recognizing that not everyone is naturally suited to mentorship. Factors such as timing and the individual’s readiness to mentor can significantly impact the effectiveness of the relationship. There are instances where the person we approach for mentorship may not have time or inclination to guide others. Careful consideration of whom and when you seek mentorship is crucial for career development or business building. It's essential to discern whether a potential mentor is actively striving to realize their full potential, facing challenges, and making a significant impact. Seeking advice and guidance from those not actively thriving or overcoming obstacles might lack the insights necessary for success. Finding a suitable mentor is an evolving process that necessitates alignment of timing, readiness, and shared goals between mentor and mentee. A good mentor serves as a catalyst for your journey toward becoming a successful mentor yourself. As we embark on the new year, reflecting on our support network influences how we position ourselves for sustainable success and happiness. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: New York City, NY https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/interlude monthly 0.5 2023-12-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/d1c57446-b111-4d1a-8de4-3e3e89f272f5/IMG_7441.JPG THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Interlude As 2023 gradually draws to a close, many of us will be taking time off for the holidays. The challenge is not letting our holiday moments be overshadowed by thoughts of what awaits in 2024. I feel eager to close out the year successfully, yet I cannot help but already feel anxious about the uncertainties that 2024 might bring. I recently drew inspiration from my beloved professor, who introduced me to the concept of savoring an interlude – a brief pause or break, often referenced in music or theater. An interlude signifies a momentary interruption or interval within a longer performance or activity. The holiday season can serve as an interlude in our lives—a time to pause, reflect, and embrace the simple joys. An interlude offers an opportunity to step away from the hustle and bustle, something we should all allow ourselves. Instead of solely focusing on planning for the new year, let us focus on cherishing togetherness and the essence of this interlude. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: West Stockbridge, MA https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/inspiration-from-your-younger-self monthly 0.5 2023-11-28 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/5021f389-8593-4ade-b113-ff1c409a2f15/IMG_2035.JPG THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Inspiration From Your Younger Self Life moves forward, and many of us tend to overlook the valuable lessons we can learn from our younger selves. When we were young, we were fearless, playful, and curious about the world around us. As we age, it is natural to take calculated risks in life. However, this mindset can sometimes impede our willingness to take necessary risks and embrace the unknown. We forget to entertain the what-ifs, dismissing the trust we once had in ourselves when we were young – a sentiment that could serve us well in challenging moments that call for courage. Playing can feel like a waste of time in the never-ending to-do list of adulthood. The joy of playing – whether it is dressing up for Halloween, playing board games with friends, tossing a frisbee on the beach, or playing tennis – should not be underestimated. Can you recall the inquisitive nature we held dear during our formative years? Maintaining this sense of wonder becomes even more important for us as adults because being curious not only inspires us but also sets intentions for endeavors. After all, who says we cannot seek inspiration from our younger selves? WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: Krabi, Thailand https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/6od84395qaoci35ejl0zs13o07rbit monthly 0.5 2023-11-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/2b3a2cef-1af9-46ca-bb33-44e0afafcb50/IMG_2167.JPG THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Home Is A Feeling How individuals engage with their living spaces is fascinating. Some prefer a more bare aesthetic, finding it conducive to clearer thinking and enhanced mobility. Others invest significantly in vibrant decor to amplify their sense of joy and personality. Living spaces – reflective of their owners' personalities – inherently exude distinct energies and influence our experiences and interactions. Observing personal items within someone’s home can offer an insightful glimpse into the owners’ lives. It is often said that the most captivating homes are those that exude a deeply personal touch. Ultimately, home is not just a space; it is a feeling. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: Genesis House, NY https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/a-stroke-of-luck monthly 0.5 2023-11-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/0b2fb9ea-295f-4283-813c-c8447fb818a4/IMG_9639.jpg THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - A Stroke of Luck The phrase “You are so lucky.” often comes our way. But one cannot exclude hard work and say it is only a lucky factor. We also hear, “The harder you work, the luckier you get.” Unfortunately, luck does not manifest the same way for everyone. The nature of luck is beyond our control while hard work remains in our control. Striking the balance between luck and hard work might just be the pathway to achieving sustainable success. After all, success often thrives at the intersection where hard work meets opportunity. Separating luck from hard work might oversimplify a complex equation of success. Having said that, we can't deny we all hope for the occasional stroke of luck. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: Capri, Italy https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/discovering-richness-in-subtlety monthly 0.5 2023-11-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/740b1458-27d4-4e30-97fd-6ae706427094/IMG_5561.JPG THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Discovering Richness in Quiet Luxury Each culture approaches the concept of luxury uniquely. For some, luxury means extravagant living, a perspective with its own merit. It is important to appreciate the value of everything, not just merely its price. The price tag alone does not define everything. I find value in a form of luxury that embodies tranquility, quality, refined simplicity, sophistication, and inspiration. Thoughtfully chosen experiences and activities encompass the definition of luxury – quiet luxury – a serene yet enriching indulgence. Quiet luxury is characterised by its effortless elegance. As an example, the concept of quiet luxury in travel finds expression in boutique hotels and resorts that prioritize exclusivity and cultivate an intimate atmosphere. They focus on creating a sense of tranquility and minimalism as a contrast to our increasingly noisy and fast-paced world. This concept of quiet luxury applies to various facets of life. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: East Hampton, New York https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/complex-stories monthly 0.5 2023-11-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/3632a774-e811-46fc-a07d-b25b04ce810d/IMG_4327.jpg THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Intricate Stories Each of us holds a tapestry of intricate life stories. Many of those stories remain untold. Unexpressed forgiveness, broken promises, and silent struggles are some of our emotional hardships. We all yearn to be heard and seen, regardless of age, skin colour, or cultural differences. The profound importance of acknowledging each person’s life story is paramount to our shared humanity. The word “Sonder'' beautifully and spiritually captures the idea that each of us holds complex and unique lives that deserve acknowledgment and understanding. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: Milan, Italy https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/present-moment monthly 0.5 2023-11-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/e8ca0021-3b98-4cd8-bed3-d4a2daeb4f55/IMG_9463.jpg THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Present Moment During my three-week sojourn in Italy last summer, I found myself fully immersed in the present moment. The knowledge that I had three weeks to make the most of my trip inspired me to seize every moment. La Dolce Vita was within reach. I would retire each night feeling a deep sense of fulfillment. I think you can relate to my experience. It is effortless to live in the present moment when you are on vacation, as thoughts of the past and future tend to fade away. The challenge is to still master the art of living in the present moment when the vacation is over. Numerous self-help books underscore the significance and benefits of living in the present moment in our daily lives. Some cultures influence the belief that one should always be thinking and doing, while others promote being here and now. This cultural influence can affect our ability to focus on the present moment. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: Pesaro, Italy https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/do-you-speak-flowers monthly 0.5 2023-11-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/96de9c3a-34bf-42dc-8c6b-59225d3708bf/IMG_5143.JPG THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Do You Speak Flowers? During the Victorian era, open and flagrant displays of emotions were considered socially inappropriate, particularly for women. Victorians turned to floriography as a clandestine method of communication to display emotions. The intense love for flowers also left an influence on art. Many Victorians kept a flower dictionary at home to decode the meanings of flowers and plants. Flower language meanings have evolved and changed considerably over the centuries, differing from one culture to another. Even today, the act of giving or receiving flowers retains its significance in our lives. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: NYC https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/give-time-time monthly 0.5 2023-11-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/92215678-6896-40ce-a606-41168fd4cf92/image0+2.jpeg THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Give Time Time We live in a time of instant gratification. When pursuing our goals, we find ourselves seeking rapid results and immediate satisfaction. While ambition and goals are commendable qualities, the relentless pursuit of instant gratification can lead to stress and disappointment. The value of patience is often underestimated. I can personally attest that this realization gradually becomes apparent with the passage of time. Relearning the art of “giving time to time” is a reminder that pushing too hard for outcomes and being excessively attached to our goals can stifle the creative process of achieving them. We then interrupt the natural flow of progress. “Giving time time” is a valuable goal to rediscover in achieving our aspirations and nurturing our creativity and well-being. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: NYC https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/ebb-and-flow-of-attention monthly 0.5 2023-11-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/f3fe4225-b25c-4308-8688-21167f26cb51/image0.jpeg THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - Ebb and Flow of Attention Have you ever found your mind wandering during an orchestra performance as a spectator? It is common for one's mind to wander. Surprisingly, allowing your mind to drift can stimulate creative thinking. As the music flows, your brain may form unexpected connections and associations, potentially inspiring new ideas. Paradoxically, taking brief mental breaks unconsciously during a performance can help us re-engage with greater focus afterward. It is important to note that while your mind may occasionally wander during the performance, this natural phenomenon doesn't diminish the deep respect and appreciation for the musicians and their craft. Instead, it reflects the orchestra's ability to transport us into a world of imagination and introspection. This ebb and flow of attention is indeed a testament to the captivating power of the orchestra. WORDS: Thinzar Kyaw PHOTO: Thinzar Kyaw LOCATION: David Geffen Hall, Lincoln Center, NYC https://www.thinzarnyc.com/thoughts-by-thinzar/the-game-of-emotions monthly 0.5 2023-11-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/637ec100ed88fd145f881c22/ede0a067-3a11-4c64-93e3-806d1889ebd8/IMG_1099.JPG THOUGHTS BY THINZAR - The Game of Emotions Whether you refer to it as billiards or pool, this game is an intricate interplay of emotions. It demands both physical skills and mental strength and focus. The success of the game lies in staying calm. Once you allow the excitement to surge simply just because you are ahead can detrimentally impact your overall performance. Each surge of emotions will drive the direction of the cue stick. Remarkably, every motion of your body and muscle is also under the direct sway of your mind. Skillfully managing your energy during a game is critical. The chance of winning increases when you can visualize the ball finding its way into the pocket. The next time you have an opportunity to play, think of these mental nuances before playing. The game is not a game against your opponent; rather, it is just the game of your mind. 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