268: Creating a World Without Poverty: Social Business and the Future of Capitalism by Muhammad Yunus

Creating a World Without Poverty: Social Business and the Future of Capitalism

When you live in extreme poverty a small loan can make a substantial difference. Economist Muhammad Yunus began experimenting with micro-loans nearly 40 years ago. The fruit of his efforts, the Grameen Bank, has helped millions of people and helped thousands of businesses get off the ground. Nearly 99% of the loans made by the bank have been re-paid. Yunus' ground-breaking work won him a Nobel Peace prize in 2006. This book explains the concept of microcredit and makes argument that it is in a businesses best interest to help people while pursuing profits.

Why this is progressive/liberal: One of the pillars of progressive philosophy is helping the poor. The innovation of microcredit and microfinance has had some success in combating poverty.

Buy the Kindle version: Creating a World Without Poverty: Social Business and the Future of Capitalism

305: Planet of Slums by Mike Davis

Planet of Slums by Mike Davis

In this book Davis takes a look at the millions of people living in huge urban mega-slums around the world. At the turn of the 20th century progressive muckrakers in the US reported on the horrifying and squalid conditions of American ghettos. At the turn of the 21st century Davis demonstrates the exponentially worse version that's plaguing major cities in the global south.

Why this is liberal/progressive: Progressives tend to be more city-oriented than rural, and tend to be more concerned with global issues. Planet of Slums reveals the dark underbelly of the most important cities of the 21st century.



For a glimpse into the world Davis is writing about check out the incredible Anderson Sa in Favela Rising.