How Not to Be a Sh!thole Country: Lessons from South Africa (Unabridged‪)‬

The U.S. is on the threshold of radical political change, following months of unrest. Incoming President Joe Biden pledges to transform America and rip the roots of systemic racism out of this country. South Africa has attempted a similar kind of "transformation" since its transition to democracy in 1994. In both countries, a utopian left-wing movement has decided that formal, legal equality is insufficient, and that the constitution is an obstacle to progress.

Before the U.S. embarks on a dangerous political journey, it should consider the lessons—both positive and negative—of South Africa's experience. This book draws on President Donald Trump's infamous alleged quip about "sh!thole countries." Though he denied making the profane comment, it is a useful shorthand for what neither the U.S. nor South Africa would wish to become, but which "transformation" could condemn them to be.