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"The Capital Order: How Economists Invented Austerity and Paved the Way to Fascism" by Clara Mattei explores the origins and consequences of austerity measures. Mattei argues that austerity and thrift are more closely tied to class struggle and the defense of the capitalist order than to economic equilibria. The book examines the post-WWI economic crisis and the rise of fascism, highlighting how capitalist elites used austerity as a defense mechanism against threats to the system. Mattei's analysis is based on archival material from Britain and Italy, revealing both similarities and differences in the implementation of austerity. The book also expands the concept of austerity to include labor subjugation, monetary control, fiscal consolidation, technocracy, depoliticization, and coercion. While the book provides a valuable historical perspective, it is important to consider alternative perspectives on austerity, such as those that propose it as a subversive principle to challenge the capitalist system. Overall, "The Capital Order" offers a thought-provoking analysis of the class origins of austerity and its implications for economic and political systems. [Extracted from the article]