The Shock Doctrine is a documentary film based on Naomi Klein's book of the same name. The film argues that neo-liberal capitalism, often referred to as "disaster capitalism," thrives on societal upheavals such as natural disasters, war, and terror attacks to implement its economic policies.
The film examines various historical examples of how disaster capitalism has been implemented around the world, starting with the policies of U.S. economist Milton Friedman. The film states that Friedman's ideology of neoliberalism was implemented in several countries around the world, starting with the Chilean coup of 1973 led by General Augusto Pinochet.
The Shock Doctrine argues that neoliberal policies such as privatization, deregulation, and cutting social services are often imposed on societies in times of crisis when people are too traumatized and distracted to resist. The film examines numerous case studies, including the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, the Iraq War, and the privatization of public infrastructure in Russia in the 1990s.
The film argues that the use of disaster capitalism has resulted in increased economic inequality, environmental degradation, and political repression. However, the film also presents examples of resistance and resilience by communities affected by crisis, showing that alternative visions for the future are possible.
The Shock Doctrine has been widely recognized for its contribution to the debate around neoliberalism and capitalism, receiving numerous awards and nominations from film festivals around the world. Critics have praised the film's informative and thought-provoking content, as well as its use of powerful imagery and music.