The Great Leveler : Violence And The History Of Inequality From The Stone Age To The Twenty First Century by Walter Scheidel

This book delves into the historical patterns of inequality, arguing that significant reductions in inequality have only ever been brought about by cataclysmic events, which the author terms as the "Four Horsemen": war, revolution, state collapse, and plague. Through a comprehensive examination of societal structures from the Stone Age to the modern era, it presents a compelling case that peaceful reforms have rarely led to lasting decreases in inequality. The work challenges readers to confront the uncomfortable reality that significant improvements in equality have often been forged in the crucible of immense human suffering, thereby questioning the prospects for achieving future equality without such extreme catalysts.

The 9317th greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 90

Since this book was first published in 2017, there is a penalty of 68.8%. The age adjusted score is 28.08.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.