Top critical review
3.0 out of 5 starsWell researched, poorly written.
Reviewed in the United States on February 1, 2013
Let me begin by stating that I agree with the author's conclusions and I believe this book is worth reading. For the reader to draw the appropriate conclusions however, one must absorb the evidence and apply independent thought. I do not believe that the author applies appropriate logical rigor to reach his conclusions.
I have to admit that I brought high expectations to reading this book. It was recommended by many people who's opinion I trust. It is clear that the author did significant research before writing. He has uncovered many anecdotes illustrative of the problems that public sector cause. He quotes experts and other opinionated observers. He reviews and reprints research performed by others. All good so far.
Then he starts to write. He draws wide sweeping conclusions from limited anecdotal evidence. He regularly sprinkles conclusions and action plans, mostly calls for popular action, into the middle of his logical constructions. In short, his arguments seem obviously constructed to reach preconceived conclusions before each element of non-scientific evidence is selected.
If you agree with the author's conclusions and need the anecdotes to provide color for your discussions, this is the book for you. If you don't have an opinion or if you need to understand the logical arguments necessary to reach an anti-public sector union conclusion, look elsewhere.
