Confessions of an Economic Hitman summary

An Inside Look at the World of Economic Hitmen

In Confessions of an Economic Hitman by John Perkins, we delve deep into his career as an economic hitman. Perkins worked for Chas. T. Main, a consulting firm, where his job was to convince developing countries to accept massive loans for infrastructure development. Upon agreeing, these countries found themselves buried in debt, which became impossible to repay. In Perkins' words, EHM's like him were tasked to "cheat countries around the globe out of trillions of dollars."

The target countries were selected based on their resources that corporates could exploit. Such loans would make the country vulnerable, consequently giving corporates a chance to extract valuable resources at low prices. Their governments, having huge debts to repay, had no other choice but to comply.

Serving America's Global Empire

Perkins outlines his work in Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia, often involving manipulations and strategies to convince political leaders. He describes in detail his interactions with significant figures like Omar Torrijos of Panama and Saudi Arabian royalty. Perkins explains how he helped expand American global influence using financial tools instead of political or military power.

However, it was not all smooth sailing. Perkins also exposes the internal conflicts he faced, realizing that he was further impoverishing already struggling nations. He reveals how guilt, threats, and the fear of losing his comfortable lifestyle kept him in a job that he knew was morally wrong.

Disillusionment and Revelation

Following the 1981 airplane crash that killed Omar Torrijos, one of the leaders Perkins felt most connected to, Perkins left his job at Chas. T. Main. His guilt over contributing to the unjust systems led him to start a new energy company committed to promoting electricity in developing countries. Later he sold his establishment and became an advocate for indigenous peoples, a bestselling author, and a faculty at several universities.

Perkins, however, found it hard to escape his past. After September 11th, he decided to share his experiences to expose the real cause behind the attacks - the dire consequences of economic exploitation. This decision culminated in the publication of Confessions of an Economic Hitman.

Call for change - A More Equitable World

The book’s latter part emphasizes the ability of individuals to make a difference, despite the enormous power and reach of corporatocracy. Perkins encourages readers to influence corporations–the same entities that once manipulated him–by being conscious consumers, using their buying power to reward companies that focus on more than just profit. He suggests that people should recognize their individual roles in the system and use their power to steer it toward more beneficial outcomes.

In conclusion, Confessions of an Economic Hitman is not just a personal recollection, but a stark revelation of the tactics used to perpetuate a skewed global economic system. It delves into the shadows of international finance and reveals unsettling truths about the power dynamics of our world. It serves as a reminder that change is possible if individuals stand aware and take action for a more equitable world.