The Shock Doctrine

The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism – Naomi Klein

1. Full Citation

Klein, N. (2007) The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism. New York: Metropolitan Books.

2. Introduction

The Shock Doctrine investigates how governments and corporations exploit crises—natural disasters, wars, and economic upheavals—to implement radical free-market policies. Naomi Klein argues that these “shocks” serve as opportunities for rapid neoliberal reforms that often undermine democratic processes and social protections. The book combines investigative journalism with economic and political analysis to critique the use of crises as a means to impose austerity, deregulation, and privatisation.

3. Author Background and Credentials

Naomi Klein is a Canadian author, social activist, and filmmaker known for her critical analyses of capitalism and globalization. Her work focuses on the intersection of politics, economics, and social justice, with a particular emphasis on the effects of corporate power and neoliberal ideology.

4. Summary of Contents

Key themes include:

  1. Disaster Capitalism
    • Explains how crises facilitate the implementation of neoliberal economic policies.
  2. Historical Case Studies
    • Details instances in Chile, Russia, Iraq, and New Orleans where shocks enabled sweeping reforms.
  3. Role of Think Tanks and Economists
    • Investigates the influence of economists and policy advisors in promoting shock-based reforms.
  4. Impacts on Society
    • Explores consequences such as increased inequality, erosion of public services, and social unrest.
  5. Resistance and Alternatives
    • Highlights grassroots movements opposing shock doctrine policies.

5. Critical Evaluation

a. Coherence and Argumentation

Klein’s arguments are forceful and well-documented, though critics suggest some overgeneralisation.

b. Originality and Intellectual Contribution

The book offers a compelling framework for understanding neoliberal policy tactics in crisis contexts.

c. Evidence, Sources, and Method

Combines extensive archival research, interviews, and case study analysis.

d. Style and Accessibility

Written in a journalistic style accessible to a wide audience.

e. Limitations and Critiques

Some scholars critique its polemical tone and selective use of evidence.

6. Comparative Context

Compared with:

  • Thomas Piketty’s Capital in the Twenty-First Century – Focus on inequality’s rise, Klein focuses on policy mechanisms
  • Naomi Klein’s own This Changes Everything – Similar critique of capitalism with environmental focus
  • Milton Friedman’s Capitalism and Freedom – Contrasts sharply as Friedman advocates free markets

7. Thematic or Disciplinary Relevance

Relevant to:

  • Political economy and neoliberalism studies
  • Disaster studies and crisis management
  • Social movements and resistance
  • Globalisation and development

8. Reflection or Practical Application

Encourages critical examination of economic reforms in crisis contexts and promotes awareness of power dynamics in policymaking.

9. Conclusion

The Shock Doctrine is an influential critique of crisis-driven economic policy, illuminating the political and social costs of neoliberal reforms.

Recommended for: Political economists, activists, policymakers, and students of globalisation and economic justice.

10. Other Works by the Same Author

  • No Logo (1999)
  • This Changes Everything (2014)
  • On Fire: The Burning Case for a Green New Deal (2019)

11. Similar Books by Other Authors

  • David Harvey – A Brief History of Neoliberalism
  • Joseph Stiglitz – Globalization and Its Discontents
  • Naomi Klein – No Logo
  • Saskia Sassen – Expulsions

12. References (only if external works are cited)

  • Klein, N. (2007) The Shock Doctrine
  • Harvey, D. (2005) A Brief History of Neoliberalism
  • Stiglitz, J.E. (2002) Globalization and Its Discontents
Home