Keywords

'A clever, witty examination of the manipulation of language in these days of late stage capitalism. Provides the reader with the tools needed to decipher the capitalist class’s manipulation of the words we use' Counterpunch

'If you feel like you’re drowning in the endless torrent of capitalist bullshit, turn to this excellent glossary which explains what all those terms really mean. Dip into it, use it as a reference, or read it cover to cover - however you approach it, you’ll find it immensely clarifying' Doug Henwood

Keywords: The New Language of Capitalism chronicles the rise of a new vocabulary in the twenty-first century. From Silicon Valley to the White House, to schools, offices and boardrooms everywhere, we are all called to be innovators and entrepreneurs, to be curators of an ever-expanding roster of competencies, and to become resilient and flexible in the face of the insults and injuries we confront at work. In the midst of increasing inequality, these keywords teach us to thrive by applying the lessons of a competitive marketplace to every sphere of life. What’s more, by celebrating the values of grit, creativity, and passion at school and at work, they assure us that economic success is nothing less than a moral virtue.

In the tradition of Raymond Williams, this book shows us how those who control language shape our culture and society.