John Perkins, a former "economic hit man", revealed his emotional turmoil in Confessions of an Economic Hitman. He illustrated from an insider's perspective the evils of the modern-day empire building of corporations or "corporatocracy" in action. He lifted the veil on the military-industrial complex, which partners with Government in bewitching consumers with guile, corruption and big marketing budgets, whilst carrying out gross environmental and human rights abuses.

In this sequel, Perkins has a more mature view of the world. Gone is the continuous guilt and egotistical self-reflection, and in its place, is more depth, plenty of anecdotes, solutions for a better world, and many exciting world travels thrown in. Not only does it read like a spy novel at times, but also a travel book. Perkins is no journalist, and there is an opportunity here for a follow-up research piece on his vignettes. There are also times when unsubstantiated conspiracy theories run a bit far. His sources are not always vetted for quality. However, I believe Perkins' heart is in the right place and he should be forgiven for less than perfect journalism.

One major faux pas is in his discussion on the 2006 Israel-Lebanon war. He mentions that Israel launched an attack on Beirut, as if they were making afternoon tea, and faced international criticism. Perkins conceals the major facts of this war - that Hizbollah instigated it by kidnapping an Israeli soldier from sovereign Israel, and launched a missile attack on Haifa. This error of omission calls to question many of his other theories. I wonder what the book could have been if he had employed a fact-checker.

There is no doubt that corporate hegemony is casting a chilling shadow on our world, and the more aware people become, the more we can do. Whilst this is by no means, a 5-star book, it is redeemed by the solutions provided, and Perkins' open-minded approach. Everyone with an interest in why the world is in the situation it's in, why we're so dependent on oil, politics, economics, and the environment, will find this book worthwhile. I would recommend it to everyone interested in the future of humanity and the world we inhabit. This is a must-read for anyone wondering why so much of Asia, Africa and the Middle East hate America.

The Secret History of the American Empire by John Perkins author of Confessions of an Economic Hit Man.
P. 283; "The world is not in danger. We are. If we don't change our ways, Mother Nature will shake us off like so many fleas."
This fast moving book is packed with historical revelations and profound thoughts.
Read it!

Perkins once again tells it like it is. We are part of the problem. Our addiction to cheap clothing and exercise equipment (put together in tropical sweatshops by people living only marginally better than inmates of Nazi prison camps) fuels the system. We have to change, to live sustainable lifestyles. Read the book. Once you understand the problem, you will want to be part of the solution.

Wow, I can't believe the reviews have been so favorable for this writers books. It's as though people just stop thinking for themselves. Let me save you 15 bucks. Down w/ capitilism, people who make money are bad. No mention that, perphaps, it's government interference and manipulation of fiscal programs around the world that cause corperations to act as they do.

I just finished reading this book. I've been researching this subject for a few years, but more importantly, have been experiencing the effects in my life of the systems he describes. The changin times are barrelling upon us. As a former world traveller, I can attest to everything he says.

This is a concise wrap up of his experience produced in a highly readable format, and I believe is indicative of a broader picture. I like that at the end of the book he gives some suggestions for solutions and ways to work together to transform the world.

Read this book!

Excellent follow-up by Mr. Perkins of his astonishing "Confessions of an EHM". First-class condition and splendid service from supplier.
If there is in the world a politician who has not read both of these works, then he or she does not deserve the position.

John Perkins was a Economic Hitman for many years. He was one of the bad guys who quit to expose the problems. It's the answers to all the questions you've had about why the world hates the USA.
Read and empower yourself with the truth.

I just finished this book after having previously read "Confessions of an Economic Hitman". Perkins does a good job of relating his personal experience and opens the door to a world that most people don't know exist.

When I read "Confessions of and Economic Hitman", I went away hungry for more information and details. This made me really look forward to reading this book. "The Secret History of the American Empire" builds on "Confessions" in narrative form. It is footnoted, but does not rely heavily on outside sources to substantiate the author's perspective. This is "Secret History's" drawback. Still, John Perkins never claims in either of this book or "Confessions" that his intention is to extensively back his experience with outside sources. He simply tells his story from his perspective and recommends a path forward.

It tells a shocking story in a very sincere way, but, for greater understanding of the subject matter, I would recommend a book with a more academic approach. Regardless, this book is a great starting point for those seeking to better understand the world.