Books by Michael Parenti
Land Of Idols: Political Mythology in America
No one challenges the political establishment with as much vigor and skill as Michael Parenti. In Land of Idols, Parenti examines the notion that American society has no dominant ideology. Arguing that this presumption is itself ideological, Parenti confronts the prevailing myths in American society that limit our perception of political reality and constrain progressive reform.
Honest, insightful, and intelligent, Land Of Idols urges Americans to look beyond political mythology and work toward a truly democratic society.
Some of the topics that Michael Parenti examines are:
New Age beliefs that reduce social problems to matters of subjective personal experience
The definition of patriotism as the unquestioning support of the status quo at home and military intervention abroad
The religious posturing of politicians in an effort to provide a veneer of moral legitimacy to justify their own self-serving political agendas
The use of racism, sexism, and class inequality to solidify elite rule
The notion that Marxism is obsolete — and that capitalism fosters democracy
The belief that in a market economy, artistic, journalistic and academic expression is free from powerful corporate and government influence.
Contents
Myths of Political Quietism
The New Age Mythology
Superpatriotism: The Importance of Being “Number One”
The Politics of Religiosity
The Stampede from Class
System without Spirit: The Relevance of Marxism
Monopoly Culture
Class Myth and Class Bigotry
Racism and the Ideology of Slavery
Race and the Hidden Dimension of Class
The Victimization of Women
Conspiracy and Intent