Capitalist Realism by the late, great Mark Fisher lays out much of the thinking that he was known for in simple yet endlessly captivating language. He presents the concept of capitalist realism, that capitalistic assumptions and ideals have become so ingrained into much of Western thought and art that it is almost impossible to imagine a future without them. As Fisher writes, "It is easier to picture the end of the world than the end of capitalism".

Further, Fisher examines the many ways that modern capitalism fails to live up to its expectations, even those self-imposed. He draws comparisons between Stalinist bureaucracy and the opaque operations of most modern companies. He lampoons the almost Leninist structure of the think tanks that have dictated so much of modern political thought.

I've really enjoyed this book both times I've read it. It's thoughtful without being obtuse and provides a great insight into what it means to live under modern capitalism in language that feels contemporary to that struggle. All while being concise enough that one can easily read the whole thing in a few hours.

I can't recommend it enough.