Dive into the literary world of Bernie Sanders, U.S. Senator.

Bernie Sanders is a prominent American politician and a leading voice for progressive causes in the United States. Born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1941, Sanders began his political career as the mayor of Burlington, Vermont, and later served as a U.S. Representative and Senator from Vermont. Known for his advocacy of issues such as income inequality, universal healthcare, and climate change, Sanders has been instrumental in shifting the Democratic Party to the left. His presidential campaigns in 2016 and 2020 galvanized a movement, particularly among younger voters, championing policies like the Green New Deal, Medicare for All, and tuition-free public colleges.

Change never takes place from the top down, from an oligarchy controlling this country. When millions of people stand up and fight back, we will not be denied.❞ — Bernie Sanders

Sanders is known for his critical thinking and deep engagement with complex social issues, traits likely sharpened by a robust reading habit. Throughout his career, Sanders has referenced a variety of historical and economic texts that inform his views on policy and governance. While specifics about his personal reading preferences are less documented, his speeches and writings suggest a familiarity with a range of authors and scholars who have critiqued economic systems and social structures. His approach to learning and policy-making shows the hallmarks of a well-read individual committed to understanding the nuances of every issue.

Bernie Sanders' Favorite Books

Last Updated: June 2024

The Battle For Paradise: Puerto Rico Takes on the Disaster Capitalists

Klein explores how the people of Puerto Rico are resisting corporate exploitation and disaster capitalism in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, reclaiming their island's future through grassroots activism and community resilience.

Where We Go from Here

Sanders outlines his vision for continuing the political revolution, advocating for progressive policies and grassroots activism to achieve social, economic, and environmental justice in America.

The Great Transformation: The Political and Economic Origins of Our Time

Polanyi's seminal work analyzes the social and economic upheavals of the 19th century, arguing that the rise of market economies disrupted traditional social structures and led to significant political and economic transformations.

Politics and Vision

Wolin's seminal work traces the development of political thought from ancient Greece to modern times, examining how visions of political order and democracy have evolved and their implications for contemporary political life.

The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America's Wealthy

Based on extensive research, this book reveals the habits and characteristics of America's wealthiest individuals, debunking myths about wealth and providing insights into how ordinary people can achieve financial success.

The Public and Its Problems

Dewey's seminal work analyzes the challenges of democracy in the modern age, arguing for the importance of public participation, communication, and education in addressing societal issues and revitalizing democratic governance.

Hidden War: How Special Operations Game Wardens Are Reclaiming America's Wildlands From The Drug Cartels

Nores recounts the efforts of specialized game wardens to combat drug cartels operating within America's wildlands, highlighting the intersection of environmental conservation and law enforcement.

A People's History of the United States

Howard Zinn presents an alternative perspective on American history, focusing on the struggles and contributions of working-class people, minorities, and women typically overlooked by conventional historical narratives.
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Rebooting the American Dream: 11 Ways to Rebuild Our Country

Hartmann proposes a series of practical solutions to restore economic stability, social justice, and democratic integrity in America, drawing on historical precedents and contemporary examples.

Continental Drift

Banks's novel interweaves the stories of two characters—Bob Dubois, a disillusioned American seeking a better life in Florida, and Vanise Dorsinville, a Haitian refugee fleeing poverty—exploring themes of displacement, aspiration, and the American Dream.

Third World America: How Our Politicians Are Abandoning the Middle Class and Betraying the American Dream

Huffington examines the decline of the American middle class, highlighting the political and economic policies that have led to increased inequality and the erosion of the American Dream.

Our Revolution: A Future to Believe In

Sanders outlines his vision for a progressive America, detailing his campaign for the presidency and advocating for policies that promote economic equality, environmental sustainability, and social justice.

Death of the Liberal Class

Hedges critiques the failure of the liberal class to address and resist the rise of corporate power and neoliberalism, arguing that its complicity has contributed to the erosion of democracy and social justice.

Voltaire's Bastards: The Dictatorship of Reason in the West

Saul critiques the overreliance on rationality and technocratic thinking in Western society, arguing that it has led to a loss of moral and ethical considerations in politics and governance.

Writings of Eugene V Debs

This collection showcases the speeches, essays, and letters of Eugene V. Debs, a prominent American socialist, labor leader, and five-time presidential candidate, highlighting his commitment to workers' rights and social justice.

Richistan: A Journey Through the American Wealth Boom and the Lives of the New Rich

Frank provides a compelling exploration of the lives and habits of America's new wealthy elite, examining the social and economic implications of the recent wealth boom.
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