Wealth, Philanthropy, and Exploitation in the Gilded Age

This chapter explores the modern resurgence of philanthropy among billionaires, drawing comparisons to the original Gilded Age when magnates like Carnegie and Rockefeller amassed fortunes through exploitation. It critiques the irony of wealthy benefactors promoting self-improvement resources while ignoring the grueling realities faced by workers. The discussion emphasizes the ethical responsibilities of the rich and advocates for a reevaluation of wealth distribution and taxation to benefit society as a whole.