Charles Murray
Charles Murray is an American political scientist, sociologist, and author known for his controversial works on social policy, including 'Losing Ground' and 'The Bell Curve'.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
-
1. Coming Apart
The State of White America, 1960-2010
The book examines the growing cultural divide in American society, focusing on the divergence between the upper and lower classes from 1960 to 2010. It highlights how economic, educational, and social factors have contributed to the fragmentation of communities, leading to distinct lifestyles and values. The author argues that this separation has significant implications for the nation's cohesion and future, emphasizing the need for a renewed focus on shared values and civic engagement to bridge the gap.
The 8423rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
2. Human Accomplishment
The Pursuit of Excellence in the Arts and Sciences, 800 B.C. to 1950
This book offers a comprehensive exploration of human achievement across various fields such as science, art, and philosophy from 800 BC to 1950. It delves into the factors that have driven significant accomplishments throughout history, examining the cultural, social, and individual influences that have shaped humanity's greatest contributions. The work also presents a quantitative analysis of the most influential figures and their impact, providing a unique perspective on the patterns and trends that have defined human progress over the centuries.
Purchase from Bookshop.org -
3. Human Diversity
The Biology of Gender, Race, and Class
This book delves into the complex tapestry of human differences, exploring the intricate interplay of genetics, environment, and culture in shaping individual and group identities. It challenges prevailing narratives by presenting evidence on the biological underpinnings of human diversity, while also acknowledging the significant role of societal influences. Through a comprehensive analysis, it seeks to foster a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to variations in intelligence, personality, and behavior, ultimately advocating for a nuanced appreciation of the rich diversity inherent in humanity.
Purchase from Bookshop.org -
4. The Hellhound Sample
In a gripping tale of mystery and intrigue, a legendary blues musician's long-lost recording, rumored to possess supernatural powers, becomes the center of a dangerous pursuit. As various factions, including music producers, collectors, and supernatural entities, vie for control of the enigmatic sample, the story unfolds with a blend of suspense and the rich cultural backdrop of the blues music scene. The narrative explores themes of obsession, legacy, and the thin line between myth and reality, drawing readers into a world where music holds the key to both salvation and destruction.
Purchase from Bookshop.org -
5. By The People
Rebuilding Liberty Without Permission
A critique of the modern American administrative state, arguing that government has exceeded its constitutional limits and burdened ordinary people with irrational rules and overcriminalization. It proposes a peaceful, bottom-up strategy of targeted civil disobedience, backed by privately funded legal defense and strategic litigation, to curb petty or lawless enforcement and protect law-abiding citizens. Combining historical analysis with concrete tactics, it seeks to revive a culture of limited government and restore everyday liberty without relying on traditional political reform.
Purchase from Bookshop.org -
6. Real Education
Four Simple Truths for Bringing America's Schools Back to Reality
The book argues that American education is undermined by a refusal to acknowledge natural differences in ability and by the push to send everyone to college regardless of aptitude, producing lowered standards and poor outcomes. It calls for realistic, competency-based approaches—restoring vocational and apprenticeship pathways, tracking students by skills, sharpening basic literacy and numeracy, and aligning incentives for teachers and institutions. The author contends that honest differentiation, not egalitarian leveling, will better serve individuals and society by matching education to talents and real-world workforce needs.
Purchase from Bookshop.org -
7. The Curmudgeon's Guide To Getting Ahead
Dos and Don'ts of Right Behavior, Tough Thinking, Clear Writing, and Living a Good Life
A witty, pragmatic handbook of blunt, commonsense rules for career and personal success that combines short aphorisms, anecdotes, and pointed advice to encourage competence, responsibility, and moral courage; it stresses clear thinking and writing, professional demeanor (punctuality, appropriate dress, decisiveness), honest communication, cultivating useful contacts over schmoozing, avoiding jargon and entitlement, and taking ownership of one’s work to get ahead in life and the workplace.
Purchase from Bookshop.org