Policy Press

Capitalism Reloaded

The Rise of the Authoritarian-Financial Complex

By Peter Bloom

Published

Apr 1, 2025

Page count

240 pages

ISBN

978-1529233858

Dimensions

234 x 156 mm

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

Apr 1, 2025

Page count

240 pages

ISBN

978-1529233841

Dimensions

234 x 156 mm

Imprint

Bristol University Press

Published

Apr 1, 2025

Page count

240 pages

ISBN

978-1529233865

Dimensions

234 x 156 mm

Imprint

Bristol University Press
Capitalism Reloaded

In Capitalism Reloaded, Peter Bloom charts a pivotal shift from the well-known military-industrial complex to a new ‘Authoritarian-Financial Complex.’ Unlike its predecessor, which centred on armaments and defence, this emerging power structure fuses financial interests with advanced surveillance and digital control, turning social repression into a lucrative industry. Bloom introduces a ground breaking theory of ‘complex power,’ where control itself becomes a central driver of capitalism, shaping economies and societies. Bloom explores how this insatiable demand for security and profit extends beyond traditional authoritarian regimes, permeating everyday life and eroding democratic freedoms. This book challenges readers to confront the deep entanglements of modern capitalism before they solidify into a techno-authoritarian order.

Peter Bloom is Professor of Management at the University of Essex.

1. Capitalism Reloaded

2. Complexifying Power

3. The Rise of the Authoritarian-Financial Complex

4. Securitizing History

5. Growing Global Authoritarian Markets

6. Producing Precarity

7. Insatiable Control

8. Repressive Progress

9. Perpetual Crisis

10. Breaking Free from the Authoritarian-Financial Complex