Success and luck

good fortune and the myth of meritocracy

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Robert H. Frank: Success and luck (2016)

187 pages

English language

Published Aug. 20, 2016

ISBN:
978-0-691-16740-4
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OCLC Number:
927619314

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4 stars (3 reviews)

"A New York Times economics columnist explores the findings in recent years by scientists who have discovered that chance plays a much larger role in important life situations than most people imagine, showing how a more accurate understanding of this discovery could lead to better, richer and fairer economies and societies,"--NoveList.

3 editions

Review of 'Success and luck' on 'Goodreads'

5 stars

During the first first 70% of the book, the author discusses the essential role of luck in our lives. He puts words to some ways of thinking about the world that I relate to but have trouble articulating.

The last 30% of the book involves the author describing his ideal methods of taxation (progressive consumption tax and estate tax).

I really enjoyed both parts of the book, but they do seem like they should have been separate books. I'd recommend the first half to people who don't understand my skepticism toward concepts like meritocracies, self-made persons, and "you can make it if you try". I'd recommend he second half of the book to people who are looking for an interesting economic argument that pairs well with Frank's view of the world (which I think I largely share).

avatar for Edward

rated it

4 stars

Subjects

  • Sociological aspects
  • Fortune
  • Merit (Ethics)
  • Success
  • Psychological aspects
  • Economics
  • Economic aspects