Robber Barons!

In 'The Gospel of Wealth,' Andrew Carnegie argues that the accumulation of wealth is not an end in itself but a means to advance civilization and alleviate human suffering. He proposes that the wealthy should utilize their surplus means to benefit society while they are still alive, rather than leaving it to heirs or charitable organizations that might not use it wisely. Carnegie advocates for strategic giving, collaboration, and social impact, emphasizing the responsibility of the wealthy to create opportunities for those who desire to improve their lives. He criticizes ostentatious living and the amassing of private treasures, instead promoting a new mode of giving that is productive and beneficial to the community.

This book, based on the successful podcast 'Stuff You Should Know', explores a range of subjects from the origin of Murphy beds to the psychology of being lost. It features new topics not covered in the podcast, with visual aids to enhance the reading experience. Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant bring their signature curiosity and storytelling style to the page, making the book a delightful read for those interested in the weird and fascinating.

Published in 1873, 'The Gilded Age: A Tale of Today' is a satirical novel that satirizes greed and political corruption in the United States during the late 19th century. The book follows the story of the Hawkins family and their attempts to improve their fortunes through land speculation. It also includes a parallel story about two young men, Philip Sterling and Henry Brierly, who seek their fortunes in similar ways. The novel is notable for its commentary on the social and political dynamics of the time, including themes of corruption, materialism, and the struggles of the era. The title 'The Gilded Age' has become synonymous with the period in American history from the 1870s to the late 1890s, characterized by its superficial glitter and underlying corruption.