Confessions of an Economic Hit Man

John Perkins

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As an Economic Hit Man (EHM), John Perkins helped further American imperial interests in countries such as Ecuador, Panama, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia. As Chief Economist for the international consulting firm Chas. T. Main, he convinced underdeveloped countries to accept massive loans for infrastructure development and ensured that the projects were contracted to multinational corporations. The countries acquired enormous debt, and the US and international aid agencies were able to control their economies.

He tried to write this book four times but was threatened or bribed each time to halt. The events of 9/11 - a direct result of the activities of EHMs in the 1970s - finally forced him to confront the role he played himself, and to reveal the truth to the rest of the world.

Confessions of an Economic Hit Man has become a word-of-mouth bestseller in the US. It has been called the book that finally 'connects the dots, the book that best explains what is really going on in the world'.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Economic Colonization: Perkins reveals how developed nations, through organizations like the World Bank and IMF, exploit developing countries by indebting them with loans they cannot repay, effectively colonizing them economically.

  2. Corruption and Coercion: The book sheds light on the corrupt practices used by economic hit men to manipulate governments and coerce them into accepting loans for projects that benefit multinational corporations, often at the expense of the local population.

  3. Environmental Degradation: Perkins exposes how large infrastructure projects financed by these loans often result in environmental destruction, such as deforestation, pollution, and displacement of indigenous communities.

  4. Social Injustice: The author highlights the social injustices perpetuated by economic hit men, including widening wealth gaps, increased poverty, and exploitation of labor in developing countries.

  5. Political Instability: Perkins discusses how economic manipulation can lead to political instability and unrest in affected countries, as governments become increasingly indebted and beholden to foreign interests.

  6. Alternative Economic Models: Through his experiences, Perkins advocates for alternative economic models that prioritize sustainability, social justice, and empowerment of local communities over profit-driven capitalism.

  7. Global Consciousness: The book encourages readers to develop a global consciousness and take responsibility for the impact of their actions on the world, urging individuals to become informed and active participants in creating positive change.

  8. Whistleblowing: Perkins' whistleblowing serves as a reminder of the importance of speaking out against injustice and holding powerful institutions and individuals accountable for their actions.

  9. Educational Reform: Perkins calls for reforms in education to include critical analysis of global economic systems and their impacts, empowering individuals to challenge the status quo and advocate for a more just and sustainable world.

  10. Hope for Change: Despite the bleak picture painted by Perkins, the book ultimately offers hope for change by highlighting the resilience of affected communities and the potential for grassroots movements to challenge and transform oppressive systems.

Language English
ISBN-13 9780091909109
No of pages 250
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher RHUK
Published Date 02 Feb 2006

About Author

Author : John Perkins

2 Books

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