Crack-Up capitalism by Quinn Slobodian
Book Overview
In Crack-Up Capitalism, Quinn Slobodian analyzes how globalization has enabled a shift away from traditional nation-state governance. Instead of operating within a unified system, economic power is increasingly being organized across disconnected zones designed to prioritize profit and minimize regulation.
Slobodian traces the history of these developments, showing how ideas about free markets and economic freedom have evolved into strategies for separating wealth from democratic oversight. From tax havens to charter cities and private governance experiments, the book reveals how capitalism is “cracking up” into smaller, insulated domains.
The book challenges readers to think critically about the future of democracy, sovereignty, and economic systems in a world where capital can move freely while political power remains fragmented.