The Great Risk Shift: The Assault on American Jobs, Families, Health Care and Retirement and How You Can Fight Back : Book Review

In Jacob S. Hacker's book, "The Great Risk Shift," he delves deep into the concept of the "risk shift" and its impact on American society. Hacker argues that there has been a significant change over the past few decades, where the burden of economic risks has shifted from corporations and the government onto individuals. This shift, he claims, has led to increased insecurity and inequality for the average American.

The book begins by providing a historical context, explaining the origins of the welfare state and its purpose in safeguarding individuals from various risks. Hacker then explores the factors driving this risk shift, such as the decline of unions, the rise of contingent work, and the weakening of government support programs.

Throughout the book, Hacker presents compelling evidence and statistics to support his arguments. He examines the consequences of the risk shift on different aspects of people's lives, including employment, healthcare, retirement, and education. Moreover, he sheds light on the broader societal impact, such as the widening income inequality and the erosion of social solidarity.

One of the book's strengths is Hacker's ability to blend academic research with accessible storytelling. He effectively communicates complex ideas and data in a way that is easy to understand and engaging. Furthermore, the book proposes potential solutions to mitigate the negative effects of the risk shift, like strengthening social safety nets and creating more secure and fair employment opportunities.

Overall, "The Great Risk Shift" is a thought-provoking and informative read that tackles a crucial issue in contemporary American society. It underscores the importance of policy changes to restore a more equitable distribution of economic risks and provide individuals with greater security in an uncertain world.

What are readers saying?

The Great Risk Shift, authored by Jacob S. Hacker, offers an insightful analysis of the growing inequality and financial insecurity in the United States. Through extensive research, Hacker delves into the economic changes of recent decades and their impact on the American workforce. Readers found this book engaging and accessible, appreciating Hacker's ability to present complex economic theories and data in a compelling manner. His thorough and meticulous research, supported by data, statistics, and historical context, was highly praised, adding credibility to his arguments.

Hacker's thought-provoking analysis impressed reviewers, as he critically examines key economic forces at play in American society. His explanations surrounding the decline of employer-provided benefits, stagnant wages, and the shifting of financial risks from corporations to individuals were considered well-reasoned and insightful. The author's ability to connect these issues to broader societal trends resonated with readers seeking a deeper understanding of the economy.

Reviewers appreciated the book's balanced and objective approach. Hacker acknowledges the complexities of the American economy and presents multiple perspectives on various issues, avoiding partisanship or bias. This fair analysis allowed readers to develop a comprehensive view of the risks and challenges faced by workers.

Furthermore, Hacker not only highlights the problems but proposes potential solutions to mitigate the risk shift and income inequality. Readers appreciated his focus on policy recommendations as valuable starting points for further discussion, even if they did not fully agree with them.

Overall, The Great Risk Shift received positive reviews due to its engaging writing style, thorough research, thought-provoking analysis, balanced approach, and proposed solutions. This enlightening exploration of income inequality and financial insecurity prevalent in the United States provides readers with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the American workforce.

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