☆ Jackson Reese and Pete Constant spotlight sharp political works

The latest chapter of Opp Now’s favorite political book series features regular contributors California Policy Center VP Jackson Reese and Institute for Public Policy Director at William Jessup University (Rocklin) Pete Constant. Below, Reese and Constant recommend “sensible,” pragmatic, field-friendly reads in economics and politics. An Opp Now exclusive.

Jackson Reese:

I generally struggle to sit down or spend quality time in books. That being said, “I, Pencil” was the most impactful short read for me.

Leonard E. Read really succinctly illustrates the fabric of mutually beneficial relationships that is weaved in markets through the perspective of a #2 pencil. It provides a simple image of Capitalism that reveals how the creation of a single pencil adds benefit to the lives of thousands of people through the worker.

Also — David Bahnsen’s new book, “There's No Free Lunch,” provides one of the best collections of summaries of economic principles. This is a phenomenal read for newer or younger readers who haven't had the time yet to sift through the economic greats.

Pete Constant:

I first bought “Winning Elections: Political Campaign Management, Strategy, and Tactics” by Ronald A. Faucheux (editor) about 17 years ago. It is full of real, practical, and sensible guidance on how to run a campaign from some of the brightest minds in the field. 

I recently pulled it off the shelf and skimmed through it again. I was pleasantly reminded of the sound strategy and advice it contained and how relevant much of the material is today. With the world of politics and advocacy always changing, it’s uncanny that the core concepts in the book are still solid.

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