Seeing Like a State: How Certain Schemes to Improve the Human Condition Have Failed
Seeing Like a State: How Certain Schemes to Improve the Human Condition Have Failed
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1999
Book Brief
BetaSeeing Like a State: How Certain Schemes to Improve the Human Condition Have Failed
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1999461
Book • Nonfiction
Global • 20th century
1999
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Seeing Like a State: How Certain Schemes to Improve the Human Condition Have Failed by James C. Scott examines how centralized governmental planning often disregards local knowledge, leading to failures in social and economic interventions. Through historical examples, Scott highlights the unintended consequences of state-imposed models on societies, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and incorporating local practices and perspectives in policy-making.
Informative
Challenging
Contemplative
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
6,847 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Review Roundup
Seeing Like a State by James C. Scott is lauded for its insightful critique of state-led planning, highlighting the dangers of overly simplistic schemes that ignore local practices. Critics praise its interdisciplinary approach and engaging narrative, but some find its arguments repetitive. Overall, it's valued for its thought-provoking analysis of governance and social engineering.
Who Should Read Seeing Like a State: How Certain Schemes to Improve the Human Condition Have Failed?
Ideal for readers interested in political science, sociology, or history, particularly those who enjoy critiques of state power and planning. Fans of The Art of Not Being Governed by Scott or The Road to Serfdom by Hayek would appreciate this analysis of authoritative schemes and their unintended consequences.
6,847 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
461
Book • Nonfiction
Global • 20th century
1999
Adult
18+ years
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