Problem
Read Reading 1
1. Choose one of the six crises Adler describes. Do you agree that this crisis exists? Why or why not (some evidence from current events or topics we've discussed in class may be helpful here)?
For much of the rest of the book, Adler argues that these crises have arisen because market capitalism is reaching the limits of what it can contribute toward human well-being. For the crisis you've chosen, how do you think Adler will go about defending the claim that capitalism is largely to blame? If you expect to disagree with Adler's argument, what questions would you like to ask him?
Read Reading 2
2. The meaning and importance of capitalist realism is perhaps best revealed by the observation that, for many of us, "it is easier to imagine the end of the world than it is to imagine the end of capitalism" (Fisher, 2009, p. 2). Fisher supports the claim that capitalist realism pervades our culture by pointing to our cultural products (e.g., dystopian novels/literature; the repetitious nature of pop music which seems to see no possibility of future innovation) and public policy (e.g., the 2008 bailouts of large financial institutions who were responsible for the crisis in the first place).
Is the concept of capitalist realism useful? Do you agree that it pervades most people's thinking in the United States? If you disagree with Fisher that capitalist realism is a commonly held belief, what questions would you pose to him to challenge his view?
The response should include a reference list. One-inch margins, Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space and APA style of writing and citations.