This week’s book  review and giveaway is ‘First as Tragedy, then as Farce’ by Slavoj Zizek. It’s a zestful and intelligent critique of contemporary capitalism in which Zizek asserts capitalism is completely irrational in a way that is impossible to ignore considering the recent financial crisis.

Using this example, as well as many others in recent history, Zizek reveals how the socialization of banks is in fact aligned to preserve capitalism and perpetuate its problems. As an alternative, he presents a utopian vision that seeks to break out of the normal structures of the marketplace.

While I don’t agree with Zizek that capitalism is beyond saving, he stirs the pot in a way that its fitful and engaging. The future of capitalism has been a subject of daily discussion since September 2008, and if you’re interested in different ideas about the future, this is a thought-provoking read.

If you want to see Zizek explain his book in his own words, click here. As always, thanks for your support and please share any comments or thoughts. I’ll give away a copy of the book to a contributor next week.