Stuff Matters

Genius, Risk and the Secret about Capitalism by Harry Bingham (Fourth Estate) ISBN: 978-0-00-726017-1

Stuff Matters is not a book about how to make money. It is about how capitalism catapulted the human race from extreme poverty to a world of ever-expanding riches. According to Bingham, the people who are best at making money often don’t care about it. Genius and innovation often convert to hard currency.
Because of innovation and capitalism, the world was able to grow wealth. People behind this wealth creation are not only benefitting themselves but mankind as well. Capitalism and innovation are the cause of the worldwide recession the world is currently experiencing.
Bingham says various systems contribute to the wealth of the society – from the conservative banker to the risk-taking entrepreneur. Society is dependent on these archetypes. It is not apparent whether Bingham feels that capitalism is a good system or whether it is the reason for financial failure.
An interesting read – even for the economically illiterate. The bits about international financial systems may sound confusing for economically challenged readers. Skimming these will not affect the understanding of the book.
Entrepreneurs, business people and anyone interested in reading about the mystery of the ever-elusive wealth will enjoy this book.
 
Ulrike Hill
3.5/5