By David Sirota

In American politics, there’s a basic – and sad – rule of thumb: When a white person talks about a taboo subject, they are often considered courageous or a “truth-teller.” When a black person talks about the same subject, they are attacked as “controversial” or worse. Draft-avoider Pat Buchanan, for instance, beats his chest as super-patriot and supposedly principled spokesperson for that horribly oppressed group: whitey, as he calls it. For this, Buchanan is rewarded with a regular slot as a Serious Political Analyst on cable news. Meanwhile, Jeremiah Wright, Barack Obama’s former pastor and former Marine, is berated as anti-American for acknowledging the concept of blow-back that our own government acknowledges.

This double-standard dynamic is why Barack Obama’s speech on race was so courageous: He addressed a taboo subject – America’s racial divide – knowing that black political leaders like him have typically faced harsh Establishment vitriol for doing so. [more]

Book Reviews — ‘Hostile Takeover: How Big Money and Corruption Conquered Our Government–And How We Take It Back’

Editorial Reviews

Washington Monthly: “A book that could show any political speaker how to forge a compelling narrative.” –This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Review: “Hostile Takeover makes a strong case that American democracy is under attack. Every politically engaged citizen who wants to know what challenges we face and how we can rebuild our country’s democracy should read this book.” –Al Gore, former vice president of the United States

“Here are the horrifying facts about how our government works today–and for whom it works–delivered in a tone of outrage that is not only merited but appropriate. Read it and scream.” — Thomas Frank, author of What’s the Matter with Kansas?

“David Sirota is a genuine American hero: he speaks the truth–forcefully, courageously, straightforwardly–with no apologies, and with thorough documentation. This book is an invaluable guide to how the hostile takeover of our government affects you, and what you can do about it.” — George Lakoff, author of Don’t Think of an Elephant!

“A blunt, two-fisted attack that pulls back the covers on the cozy canoodling between corporations and our government. Sirota ferociously indicts politicians of both political parties for their shameless peddling of corporate PR.” — Arianna Huffington, author of Pigs at the Trough

“A precious handbook for citizens living in the country of anger and disgust. Read it and you will no longer feel powerless. You may begin to believe it’s possible for the people to reclaim their democracy. You may even decide to join the fight.” — William Greider, author of Who Will Tell the People and national affairs correspondent for The Nation

“Hostile Takeover is not for the Powers That Be, but for the Powers That Ought to Be–the ordinary grassroots people of our country. Use this book as a lesson plan and action plan for taking our government back.” — Jim Hightower, author of Thieves in High Places

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