Slouching Towards Utopia Summary and Review | Brad DeLong
Slouching Towards Utopia: An Economic History of the Twentieth Century is a book written by Brad DeLong that takes a comprehensive look at the economic growth and development of the twentieth century, from roughly 1870-2010. The book has been praised by numerous economists and historians, including Minouche Shafik, director of the London School of Economics and Political Science; Andrew G. Haldane, former chief economist of the Bank of England; Martin Wolf, chief economics commentator for the Financial Times; and Thomas Piketty, #1 New York Times–bestselling author of Capital in the Twenty-First Century.
The book examines how unprecedented levels of economic growth during the “long twentieth century” drastically changed the world, and explores the reasons for both the successes and failures of this era. It looks at the effects of global economic growth on areas such as politics, social justice, and human well-being, as well as the impact of technology and advancements in science.
DeLong also delves into the implications of these changes, such as the failure of material wealth to create a utopia, and the current recrimination and discord in the world today. In addition, he offers possible solutions to ensure that the long twentieth century will be remembered as an exception, not the rule.
The book has received critical acclaim from a wide range of sources, including The Economist, The Daily Telegraph, Every, Foreign Affairs, Los Angeles Times, Dissent, Strategy + Business, Library Journal, and Publishers Weekly. They have praised its comprehensive analysis, accessible prose, thought-provoking detail, and ability to illuminate both the achievements and setbacks of the twentieth century. Slouching Towards Utopia is an essential read for those looking to understand the forces that have shaped the world today.
Rating
How would you rate this book?
Related Book Summaries
21 Lessons for The 21st Century
Ten Lessons for a Post Pandemic World