From ancient times to the present, different countries have had different levels of development, and the rise and destruction of great powers is common. China led the world for centuries, but later fell behind Europe after the Industrial Revolution; Argentina once led France and Germany and was one of the richest countries in the world, but fell into a political crisis half a century later and its economy plummeted. Within a country, the income levels of different groups of people also vary widely. Black Americans are more likely to fall into poverty than white people, while Chinese, Jewish and Lebanese continue to create and accumulate wealth wherever they immigrate.
What factors contribute to the rise, rise, and decline of countries? And what endowments make it easier for a certain group of people to obtain wealth? What exactly are the causes of income inequality and wealth inequality, and how do they cause a host of social and political conflicts in countries around the world?
In this brand-new work, economics master Thomas Sowell uses rich historical materials, calm observation, and precise analysis to deeply explore this most explosive topic in the world today. He debunked the ambiguous data and sensational theories of authorities and economists, and exposed in the plainest and clearest language the problems of inequality between countries, between groups, and between people from four aspects: geography, culture, society, and politics. Sowell's research transcends the prejudices of different factions and theories. It not only reveals the truth of the world for us, but also provides us with methods to observe, think and understand the nature of the world.
