The best 100 Culture books

Culture is an essential aspect of human society, shaping our identities, values, and beliefs. It is a constantly evolving phenomenon that influences and is influenced by the world around us. Our book list aims to provide a deeper understanding of this fascinating subject.

Delving into various aspects of global culture, this list offers a diverse range of perspectives and insights. From exploring cultural differences to examining the impact of popular culture, there's something for everyone. So, let's immerse ourselves in the world of culture and start this enriching journey!
The best 100 Culture books
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1
Culture Books: Musicophilia by Oliver Sacks

Musicophilia

Oliver Sacks
Tales of Music and the Brain
4.3 (97 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Musicophilia about?

Musicophilia explores the enriching, healing and disturbing effects of music. It delves into fascinating case studies about disorders that are expressed, provoked and alleviated by music.

Who should read Musicophilia?

  • Anyone who loves listening to music
  • Anyone who wants to learn how music affects our brains
  • Anyone who wants to know how music can heal people

2
Culture Books: Civilization by Niall Ferguson

Civilization

Niall Ferguson
The Six Killer Apps of Western Power
4.2 (164 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Civilization about?

There seems to be a crisis of confidence in the West. In the face of the rising power of China, and with a seeming lack of interest in its own history and civilization, many fear that the West has somehow lost it way.

Civilization aims to explain why the West grew so powerful and dominated the rest of the world. The answer lies with six killer applications, which enabled the West to overcome the rest. Yet vital questions arise: Has the West forgotten these killer apps and will this lead to its collapse?

Who should read Civilization?

  • Students of history and politics
  • Those who wonder how the West became so powerful compared to the rest of the world
  • Anyone who fears the collapse of Western civilization

3
Culture Books: How Music Works by David Byrne

How Music Works

David Byrne
4.4 (131 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's How Music Works about?

How Music Works sets out to explain the workings of music from ancient history up to now. Writing from an insider’s perspective, David Byrne delves into different aspects of popular music, based on current research, music history, technical knowledge and his life-long career in the new wave band Talking Heads.

Who should read How Music Works?

  • Anyone who wants to understand the inner workings of the music business
  • Anyone interested in music’s relationship to its surroundings
  • Anyone who wants to find out why music is so important to humans

4
Culture Books: The Monopolists by Mary Pilon

The Monopolists

Mary Pilon
Obsession, Fury and the Scandal Behind the World's Favorite Board Game
4.1 (34 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Monopolists about?

The Monopolists (2015) unveils the true yet checkered history of Parker Brothers's most successful board game, Monopoly. It tells the tale of the game’s origins in progressive, anti-capitalist thinking to its evolution under the control of Parker Brothers, a company that went to extraordinary lengths to rewrite Monopoly’s history and crush any competition in the process.

Who should read The Monopolists?

  • Fans of the board game Monopoly
  • Lawyers or specialists in trademark or property rights laws
  • Historians or popular culture fanatics

5
Culture Books: The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko

The Millionaire Next Door

Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko
The Surprising Secrets of America’s Wealthy
3.9 (490 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Millionaire Next Door about?

Drawing from personal interviews, The Millionaire Next Door (1996) reveals that many millionaires’ daily lives are a far cry from the stereotype of luxury cars, mansions and private jets. Yet this book also disproves the belief that becoming a millionaire is difficult – anyone can learn not only how to become rich but also stay rich.

Who should read The Millionaire Next Door?

  • People who want to become wealthy
  • Millionaires struggling to hold on to their cash
  • Social scientists studying the habits of affluent people

6
Culture Books: Orientalism by Edward W. Said

Orientalism

Edward W. Said
Western Conceptions of the Orient
3.9 (231 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Orientalism about?

Orientalism (1978) shines a light on the often unquestioned assumptions about Eastern civilizations that are persistently prevalent in the West. By unearthing and analyzing the West’s biases, Edward Said aims to undermine Orientalism’s influence on how the West perceives and interacts with the East.

Who should read Orientalism?

  • Anyone fascinated by non-Western civilizations
  • Anyone curious about the origins of modern international politics
  • Anyone interested in the history of colonialism and its remaining traces today

7
Culture Books: Stuffocation by James Wallman

Stuffocation

James Wallman
Living More with Less
4.2 (129 ratings)
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00:00

What's Stuffocation about?

Stuffocation (2013) explains how having too much stuff not only places an unnecessary burden on us, but is even leading to health issues. Our lives have become oversaturated with things, and a new value is emerging: the importance of experience over material possessions.

Who should read Stuffocation?

  • Anyone interested in what happens after the age of materialism
  • Anyone feeling overwhelmed by having too much stuff

8
Culture Books: The Gift of Failure by Jessica Lahey

The Gift of Failure

Jessica Lahey
How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed
4.5 (63 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Gift of Failure about?

In The Gift of Failure (2015), Lahey offers compelling reasons for caregivers to relinquish control over their children and let them fail. By taking this approach, Lahey argues, it will give children an important opportunity to learn about their values and skills, while strengthening their confidence, autonomy and sense of responsibility.

Who should read The Gift of Failure?

  • Parents and caregivers
  • Teachers
  • Anyone working with children

9
Culture Books: Thinking in Systems by Donella H. Meadows

Thinking in Systems

Donella H. Meadows
A Primer
4.2 (307 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Thinking in Systems about?

Thinking in Systems (2008) is an introduction to systems thinking. These blinks will teach you how to see the world in terms of interconnected networks while detailing how different elements, relationships and goals make any given structure run.

Who should read Thinking in Systems?

  • Anyone interested in how systems function
  • People who want to improve their problem-solving skills in everything from personal issues to global trade

10
Culture Books: The Wisdom of Insecurity by Alan Watts

The Wisdom of Insecurity

Alan Watts
A Message for an Age of Anxiety
4.4 (453 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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What's The Wisdom of Insecurity about?

In The Wisdom of Insecurity (1951), author Alan Watts discusses the paradoxical nature of modern life: we pursue goals and covet material goods that promise happiness, but which leave us feeling empty and more anxious than ever. As we indulge in unproductive thoughts about the future or the past, we tend to forget about what is most meaningful – the present moment.

Who should read The Wisdom of Insecurity?

  • Anyone feeling unfulfilled in life
  • Anxiety sufferers searching for the secrets to happiness
  • People interested in contemporary philosophy

11
Culture Books: Born to Run by Christopher McDougall

Born to Run

Christopher McDougall
A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen
4.4 (200 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Born to Run about?

Born to Run (2009) delves into the human capacity for long-distance running. First-hand accounts, an encounter with a secretive ultra-running tribe and cutting-edge research combine to argue for the idea that we may well be born to run.

Who should read Born to Run?

  • Runners and anyone training for a marathon
  • Armchair athletes
  • Health-conscious people

12
Culture Books: Braving the Wilderness by Brené Brown

Braving the Wilderness

Brené Brown
The Quest for True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone
4.2 (422 ratings)
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00:00

What's Braving the Wilderness about?

Braving The Wilderness (2017) challenges common notions about what it means to belong. It links feelings of unbelonging to feelings of anger and unrest, both in the United States and abroad. Brené Brown uses a potent combination of scientific research and storytelling to reveal what it means to truly belong. This includes remarkable tales of pain and suffering that show just how far people are willing to go to gain a sense of belonging.

Who should read Braving the Wilderness?

  • Readers interested in tales of courage, bravery, vulnerability and shame
  • Outsiders who feel like they don’t belong
  • Students of the social sciences

13
Culture Books: Factfulness by Hans Rosling, Ola Rosling and Anna Rosling Rönnlund

Factfulness

Hans Rosling, Ola Rosling and Anna Rosling Rönnlund
Ten Reasons We’re Wrong About the World – and Why Things Are Better Than You Think
4.2 (576 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Factfulness about?

Factfulness (2018) offers readers a wealth of statistics and cold, hard facts that reveal the world to be a far better place than it was just a couple generations ago. But, more than that, author Hans Rosling also offers readers a way to revise their thinking and fight against our instinct to focus on the bad and lose sight of the good.

Who should read Factfulness?

  • Readers concerned about the planet
  • Activists and environmentalists
  • People involved in public health

14
Culture Books: Enlightenment Now by Steven Pinker

Enlightenment Now

Steven Pinker
The Case For Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress
4.0 (325 ratings)
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00:00

What's Enlightenment Now about?

Enlightenment Now (2018) offers a refreshingly optimistic take on the state of the world today. With reams of data, charts and graphs, Steven Pinker shows how much progress we’ve made since the eighteenth century, when the Age of Reason, otherwise known as the Enlightenment, shifted society away from centuries of rule by superstition and paranoia.

Who should read Enlightenment Now?

  • Optimists and recovering pessimists
  • Students of economics and philosophy
  • Readers tired of negative news

15
Culture Books: The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker

The Art of Gathering

Priya Parker
How We Meet and Why It Matters
4.3 (208 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Art of Gathering about?

In The Art of Gathering (2018), Priya Parker argues that the gatherings in our lives – from business meetings to dinner parties – are lackluster, routine and lacking in purpose. Parker sets out a bold new approach to gathering that focuses on distinctiveness, purpose and real human connection, and shows how simple steps can invigorate any gathering of people.

Who should read The Art of Gathering?

  • Anyone who’d like to create better, more impactful parties or events
  • People interested in how to use gatherings to make real human connections.

16
Culture Books: A Brief History of Everyone Who Ever Lived by Adam Rutherford

A Brief History of Everyone Who Ever Lived

Adam Rutherford
The Human Story Retold Through Our Genes
4.5 (237 ratings)
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What's A Brief History of Everyone Who Ever Lived about?

A Brief History of Everyone Who Ever Lived (2016) tells the story of humanity through genetics. These blinks explain how humans evolved, the role that genes played – and continue to play – in our development, and the ways in which our genetic past can shine a light on the present.

Who should read A Brief History of Everyone Who Ever Lived?

  • Historians, archaeologists, geneticists and biologists
  • Anyone interested in the history and biology of human life
  • Students fascinated by evolution, genes and DNA

17
Culture Books: The New Silk Roads by Peter Frankopan

The New Silk Roads

Peter Frankopan
The Present and Future of the World
3.9 (173 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The New Silk Roads about?

The New Silk Roads (2018) explores current affairs and political trends from an Eastern perspective. Using up-to-date examples and staggering statistics, the blinks explain the complicated global relationships and alliances at play in international relations today.

Who should read The New Silk Roads?

  • Current affairs enthusiasts looking for fresh insights
  • History buffs wanting a new perspective
  • Business leaders wanting to prepare for the world of tomorrow

18
Culture Books: Palestine by Nur Masalha

Palestine

Nur Masalha
A Four Thousand Year History
3.8 (452 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Palestine about?

Palestine (2015) chronicles the long history of the land straddling the eastern Mediterranean between modern-day Lebanon and Egypt. By compiling an impressive set of sources both ancient and modern, Nur Masalha presents a nuanced history of the region, from its roots in ancient Philistine civilization to the advent of modern Palestinian nationalism in the nineteenth century, and Israel’s founding in 1948.

Who should read Palestine?

  • Students of history or politics
  • Supporters of both Israel and Palestine looking to inform themselves on the region
  • Palestinians who’d like to learn more about the complex historical tapestry of their land

19
Culture Books: Who We Are and How We Got Here by David Reich

Who We Are and How We Got Here

David Reich
Ancient DNA and the New Science of the Human Past
4.3 (182 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Who We Are and How We Got Here about?

Who We Are and How We Got Here (2018) takes readers on a journey through the world’s anthropological history, demonstrating that people have continually migrated and mixed over time. Recent scientific advances are allowing scientists to study human DNA from the distant past and compare it to that of those alive today. The insights about humans’ origins are both fascinating and revealing.

Who should read Who We Are and How We Got Here?

  • Scientists with burgeoning interests in anthropology and languages
  • Ethno-nationalists looking to have their views challenged
  • Genealogists looking for the bigger picture

20
Culture Books: Why I Am a Hindu by Shashi Tharoor

Why I Am a Hindu

Shashi Tharoor
3.4 (227 ratings)
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What's Why I Am a Hindu about?

Why I Am a Hindu (2018) is a meditation on religion and national identity from the perspective of one of India’s leading politicians, Shashi Tharoor. Written with an eye to the rise of Hindu fundamentalism, it unpacks the 4,000-year-old history of his faith and argues that today’s Hindutva movement is perverting an ancient tradition of tolerance and diversity. If Indians want to see their country flourish, Tharoor concludes, they’ll have to reject the ruling party’s chauvinism and embrace that great cultural legacy.

Who should read Why I Am a Hindu?

  • Politics buffs and history students
  • Anyone fascinated by one of the world’s largest religions
  • Champions of multiculturalism and tolerance

21
Culture Books: Mythology by Edith Hamilton

Mythology

Edith Hamilton
Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes
4.5 (189 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Mythology about?

In Mythology (1942), Edith Hamilton takes the reader on a swift journey through the classical annals, surveying the fascinating stories of Greek and Roman mythology. The power of these stories impacted art and literature for centuries. Here, you can learn their essence. From the creation of the world to the epic siege of Troy, Hamilton gives you the grounding you need.

Who should read Mythology?

  • Students of ancient history and classics
  • Any art lover who’s ever viewed a classical mythology-inspired painting with confusion
  • Dinner table conversationalists looking for a classical analogy to spice things up

22
Culture Books: Maps of Meaning by Jordan B. Peterson

Maps of Meaning

Jordan B. Peterson
The Architecture of Belief
4.5 (655 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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What's Maps of Meaning about?

Maps of Meaning (1999) argues that myths provide the key to understanding the human psyche and our shared culture. Combining classic psychoanalysis with psychology, social and historical analysis, Jordan B. Peterson reveals how myths convey morality and create meaning in our lives – and what we can learn from them to reach our individual potential.

Who should read Maps of Meaning?

  • Psychologists interested in ancient history, and historians interested in human nature
  • Jordan Peterson devotees who want to dive deeper into his system of thought
  • Skeptics who want to better understand the author’s controversial theories

23
Culture Books: 2030 by Mauro F. Guillén

2030

Mauro F. Guillén
How Today's Biggest Trends Will Collide and Reshape the Future of Everything
4.2 (991 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's 2030 about?

2030 (2020) isn’t a crystal ball – but it might be the next best thing. Drawing on current sociological trends, demographic trajectories, and technological advancements, it paints a convincing picture of the global changes we can expect to see and experience in the coming decade.

Who should read 2030?

  • Tech workers and marketing professionals keen to stay ahead of the curve
  • Eco-warriors looking for solutions to the climate crisis
  • Anyone curious to see what the future might hold

24
Culture Books: Man and His Symbols by Carl Jung

Man and His Symbols

Carl Jung
4.4 (363 ratings)
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What's Man and His Symbols about?

Man and His Symbols (1964) was the final work of the influential psychologist Carl Jung, and the only one written for a general audience. It breaks down some of Jung’s most complex ideas, such as his theories about archetypes and the unconscious, and it explores the vast expanse of symbols and stories that dwell within our minds.

Who should read Man and His Symbols?

  • Students of psychology and philosophy
  • People who want to understand their dreams better
  • Lovers of myths, legends, folk tales, and parables

25
Culture Books: Grand Transitions by Vaclav Smil

Grand Transitions

Vaclav Smil
How the Modern World Was Made
4.2 (267 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Grand Transitions about?

Grand Transitions (2020) offers a sweeping overview of global transitions, from population growth to environmental changes. It examines the ways that we’ve shaped the world, for better or worse, and looks at the challenges facing humanity in the decades to come.

Who should read Grand Transitions?

  • People who want to understand world history, and how we got where we are today
  • Environmentalists, and anyone interested in the state of the planet
  • Realists looking for a future forecast based on facts

26
Culture Books: Sex for One by Betty Dodson

Sex for One

Betty Dodson
The Joy of Selfloving
4.2 (213 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Sex for One about?

Sex for One (1987) is a part-memoir, part-guidebook by Betty Dodson, a pioneering pro-sex feminist and masturbation advocate. Dodson recounts her own erotic journey and offers a step-by-step approach to embracing self-love.

Who should read Sex for One?

  • Anyone who masturbates
  • People interested in sexual politics and feminist history
  • Anyone who wants to learn how to embrace pleasure and sex positivity

27
Culture Books: Drive by Daniel Pink

Drive

Daniel Pink
The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us
4.5 (765 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Drive about?

Drive (2009) points out that many organizations still follow a “carrot and stick” approach, using external incentives to motivate people. It explains why this is a bad idea and introduces a more effective solution: sparking engagement by catering to the psychology of intrinsic motivation.

Who should read Drive?

  • Psychology buffs interested in human behavior
  • Executives who’d like to leverage the power of intrinsic motivation
  • Anyone who wants to find out how to effectively motivate themselves

28
Culture Books: Free Speech by Jacob Mchangama

Free Speech

Jacob Mchangama
A History from Socrates to Social Media
4.4 (188 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Free Speech about?

Free Speech (2022) traces the history of this world-defining idea. It provides a soapbox for some of free speech’s greatest proponents and highlights key events that pushed the idea forward from ancient times to the present. Offering an evenhanded treatment of the costs and benefits of free speech throughout history, it’s a powerful retort to all those forces that threaten to erode free speech today.

Who should read Free Speech?

  • Passionate defenders of free speech who could use more argumentative ammunition 
  • Students preparing for campus debates on whether free speech should be limited
  • Anyone on the left or right seeking insight into modern-day debates on free speech

29
Culture Books: Mythos by Stephen Fry

Mythos

Stephen Fry
A Retelling of the Myths of Ancient Greece
4.7 (642 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Mythos about?

Mythos (2017) is a fabulous retelling of the Greek myths. It provides a great introduction to anyone interested in knowing more about the Greek gods and goddesses without any preknowledge or a classical education.

Who should read Mythos?

  • Lovers of Greek mythology
  • Anyone interested in creation stories from ancient cultures
  • Humans who want to understand their origin as seen by the ancient Greeks

30
Culture Books: This Naked Mind by Annie Grace

This Naked Mind

Annie Grace
Control Alcohol, Find Freedom, Discover Happiness & Change Your Life
4.1 (183 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's This Naked Mind about?

This Naked Mind (2015) challenges our culture's love affair with alcohol. It offers matter-of-fact, actionable insights that help free drinkers from its perceived hold.

Who should read This Naked Mind?

  • Party animals who want a permanent break
  • Mindful drinkers seeking balance
  • Curious cats who question cultural norms

31
Culture Books: Guns, Germs and Steel by Jared Diamond

Guns, Germs and Steel

Jared Diamond
The Fates Of Human Societies
4.0 (599 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Guns, Germs and Steel about?

Guns, Germs, and Steel (1997) is a short history of humanity over the last 13,000 years. The question it poses is as simple to state as it is hard to answer: Why did some parts of the world develop advanced technologies while others didn’t? It rejects explanations that rely on assumptions about the relative intelligence of different peoples. Instead, it argues that the divergence of human societies is best explained by natural factors such as climate, biology, and geology. 

Who should read Guns, Germs and Steel?

  • History buffs
  • Scientists
  • Anyone interested in the big picture of humanity’s development

32
Culture Books: In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts by Gabor Maté

In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts

Gabor Maté
Close Encounters with Addiction
4.5 (176 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts about?

In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts (2008) is a heartful exploration of the complex condition known as addiction. It tells the real-life stories of addicts, who are so often denied the space to do so, alongside science-based analyses of why and how people get addicted. Importantly, it also challenges us to think of the ways, obvious or not, in which we too are addicts – and what we can do to heal ourselves.

Who should read In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts?

  • People with addiction, who know someone with addiction, or who work with addiction
  • Pop-science “junkies”
  • Social justice advocates and anyone opposed to the War on Drugs

33
Culture Books: Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus by Nabeel Qureshi

Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus

Nabeel Qureshi
A Devout Muslim Encounters Christianity
4.2 (123 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus about?

Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus (2016) traces a young man’s dramatic spiritual journey from Islam to Christianity. Packed with insights into the faith he grew up with as well as the faith he adopted later in life, Quereshi’s story will challenge Christians, Muslims, and all those interested in the world’s greatest religions.

Who should read Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus?

  • Believers interested in interfaith dialogue
  • Anyone questioning their own faith journey
  • History buffs 

34
Culture Books: The Road by Cormac McCarthy

The Road

Cormac McCarthy
4.4 (45 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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What's The Road about?

The Road (2006) is a dystopian thriller following a father-and-son duo fighting to survive in a bleak, post-apocalyptic landscape. Forced to scavenge for food and supplies, threatened by gangs of outlaw survivors, and faced with death and illness, the duo struggle to maintain morality and hope in a world that seems to have lost all humanity.

Who should read The Road?

  • Fans of post-apocalyptic fiction
  • Admirers of Cormac McCarthy’s unique literary style.
  • Anyone who enjoys thought-provoking allegorical tales.

35
Culture Books: The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain

The Prince and the Pauper

Mark Twain
4.6 (203 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Prince and the Pauper about?

The Prince and the Pauper (1881) is a classic tale that explores the societal framework of the sixteenth-century English society. The story unravels the unexpected journey of two identical boys – Prince Edward, the royal heir, and Tom Canty, a destitute pauper, as they swap their lives. In exploring each other's worlds, they gain insightful lessons about society, identity, and human kindness, with the story offering a profound commentary on class disparities and social norms.

Who should read The Prince and the Pauper?

  • History enthusiasts
  • Fans of classic literature
  • Personal development seekers

36
Culture Books: The Trial by Franz Kafka

The Trial

Franz Kafka
4.2 (38 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Trial about?

The Trial ( 1925 ) tells the distressing story of Josef K. who wakes up one morning to find he’s under arrest for an unnamed offense. As cryptic legal proceedings unfold around him, K. struggles to make sense of his predicament or convince others of his innocence. It’s a  disturbing parable that raises philosophical questions about personal dignity and free will when pitted against entrenched bureaucracies.

Who should read The Trial?

  • People who appreciate surreal, disorienting stories
  • Readers and listeners grappling with existential questions
  • Anyone who feels alienated from bureaucracy

37
Culture Books: The Birth of Tragedy by Friedrich Nietzsche

The Birth of Tragedy

Friedrich Nietzsche
4.1 (51 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Birth of Tragedy about?

The Birth of Tragedy (1872) interprets Greek tragedy’s birth and death. The narrative advocates the re-emergence of tragic arts and rejects the societal shift towards rationality and science during the time when it was written.

Who should read The Birth of Tragedy?

  • Philosophy enthusiasts
  • Greek culture aficionados
  • Tragedy genre lovers

38
Culture Books: Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

Sense and Sensibility

Jane Austen
3.9 (31 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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What's Sense and Sensibility about?

Sense and Sensibility (1811) explores the divergent paths of two sisters as they navigate through society’s challenges, drawn by differing temperaments of sound logic and emotional sensitivity.

Who should read Sense and Sensibility?

  • Fans of classic literature
  • Students studying societal norms
  • Lovers of strong female characters

39
Culture Books: A Passage to India by E. M. Forster

A Passage to India

E. M. Forster
3.8 (93 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's A Passage to India about?

A Passage to India explores the complex dynamics between the British colonialists and the Indian citizens in the setting of Chandrapore, a fictional city in British India. It delves into themes of friendship, culture clash, and the quest for understanding across cultural divides.

Who should read A Passage to India?

  • History enthusiasts  
  • Fans of British literature  
  • Cultural studies scholars

40
Culture Books: Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert

Madame Bovary

Gustave Flaubert
A Tale of Desire and Despair in the Search for Fulfillment
4.4 (56 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Madame Bovary about?

Madame Bovary (1856) is the story of Emma Bovary, unhappily married to a provincial French doctor, and her ultimately futile attempts to exchange dull reality for a more romantic life. In the years since its publication it has been hailed as a groundbreaking and classic work of realist literature.

Who should read Madame Bovary?

  • Literature lovers keen to get acquainted with one of the great novels
  • Romantics who are drawn to stories of love and longing
  • Students of psychology intrigued by complex character studies

41
Culture Books: The Idiot by Fyodor Dostoevsky

The Idiot

Fyodor Dostoevsky
3.8 (66 ratings)
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What's The Idiot about?

The Idiot (1869) follows the naïvely optimistic prince Myshkin as he moves through Russia’s confusing and cynical society, offering a profound discussion on the struggle between idealism and worldly disillusionment.

Who should read The Idiot?

  • Connoisseurs of Russian literature
  • Readers interested in philosophy
  • Enthusiasts of character-driven narratives

42
Culture Books: On the Genealogy of Morals by Friedrich Nietzsche

On the Genealogy of Morals

Friedrich Nietzsche
3.7 (73 ratings)
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What's On the Genealogy of Morals about?

On the Genealogy of Morals (1887) delves deeply into Nietzsche’s evolving moral philosophy, exploring the origins and meanings of traditional Western morality. It suggests a radical departure from it and posits the emergence of new moral constructs.

Who should read On the Genealogy of Morals?

  • Philosophers and thinkers
  • Readers interested in morality
  • Nietzsche’s followers

43
Culture Books: Women Who Run with the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés

Women Who Run with the Wolves

Clarissa Pinkola Estés
Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype
4.2 (89 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Women Who Run with the Wolves about?

Women Who Run with the Wolves (1989) is a profoundly influential work of Jungian psychology that has shown countless women how to connect with the wise, abiding, and untameable presence of the Wild Woman archetype in their own psyches.

Who should read Women Who Run with the Wolves?

  • Women who want to awaken their innate connection to wildness and instinct
  • Women who crave deeper experiences and relationships 
  • Women who yearn to rekindle their intuition

44
Culture Books: Spoon-Fed by Tim Spector

Spoon-Fed

Tim Spector
Why almost everything we've been told about food is wrong
3.8 (181 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Spoon-Fed about?

Spoon-Fed (2020) explores the widespread confusion and misinformation about nutrition, shedding light on the dearth of substantial scientific support for many prevailing food myths. The book delves into the influence exerted by the food industry on government dietary recommendations and urges readers to critically assess diet plans, official advice, and food labels, prompting a reevaluation of their relationship with food.

Who should read Spoon-Fed?

  • Those looking to develop a healthier diet and lifestyle
  • People with dietary restrictions or conditions
  • Skeptics of fad diets and food marketing

45
Culture Books: Foundation by Isaac Asimov

Foundation

Isaac Asimov
4.6 (81 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Foundation about?

Foundation (1951) looks at the crumbling of a galactic empire from the perspective of the planet Terminus, located on the Empire’s outer edge. Terminus is home to the Foundation, a community formed by a mathematician who could predict the future and the Empire’s inevitable demise. As the Empire crumbles, the Foundation gains increasing influence through a mixture of atomic power, religion, and economic savvy.

Who should read Foundation?

  • Sci-fi fans
  • Those who’ve watched the new Foundation television series and are curious about the books
  • Anyone who likes a good space opera

46
Culture Books: Understanding Power by Noam Chomsky, Peter R. Mitchell & John Schoeffel

Understanding Power

Noam Chomsky, Peter R. Mitchell & John Schoeffel
The Indispensable Chomsky
4.4 (186 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Understanding Power about?

Understanding Power (2002) is a compilation of discussions and seminars by Noam Chomsky curated by Peter R. Mitchell and John Schoeffel. Throughout this collection, Chomsky delves into a wide range of topics, primarily focusing on how power and politics shape societies – critiquing media, corporate power, and governmental control, all while examining how these forces influence public opinion, policy, and democracy. With a focus on America, it reinterprets events of the past concerning foreign and social policy, highlighting the many challenges that Americans continue to face.

Who should read Understanding Power?

  • Political and sociology students
  • Citizen historians interested in America
  • Changemakers and activists

47
Culture Books: The Panama Papers by Bastian Obermayer & Frederik Obermaier

The Panama Papers

Bastian Obermayer & Frederik Obermaier
Breaking the Story of How the Rich and Powerful Hide Their Money
5.0 (2 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Panama Papers about?

The Panama Papers (2016) tells the story of how a massive data leak exposed a hidden world of offshore banking and shell companies used by global elites to conceal their wealth. It reveals a vast network of financial secrecy involving world leaders, celebrities, and criminals – revelations that shook the foundations of international finance.

Who should read The Panama Papers?

  • Citizens interested in corruption and financial crime
  • Business students studying corporate ethics and responsibility
  • Anyone interested in understanding global inequality

48
Culture Books: The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

Douglas Adams
A Novel
4.3 (212 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy about?

The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (1979) is the first book in a series of science fiction novels that follows Arthur Dent, the only human to escape the destruction of Earth. Following his rescue by an alien researcher for the eponymous guide, Arthur’s reluctant adventure across space and time leads to an array of surreal and humorous escapades across the universe.

Who should read The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy?

  • Those interested in learning what the classic science fiction franchise is all about
  • First-time intergalactic travelers looking to brush up on alien etiquette
  • Anyone curious about the meaning of life, the universe, and everything

49
Culture Books: Ulysses by James Joyce

Ulysses

James Joyce
4.3 (111 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Ulysses about?

Ulysses (1922) is a modernist novel that unfolds over the course of a single day in Dublin on June 16, 1904. The narrative follows two young men as they navigate the city and encounter a diverse array of characters and situations. Through its intricate narrative structures and literary styles, the novel explores themes of identity, consciousness, and the complexities of the human experience.

Who should read Ulysses?

  • Fans of classic literature
  • Those interested in the origins of modernism
  • Anyone curious about a reimagining of The Odyssey

50
Culture Books: The Burnout Society by Byung-Chul Han

The Burnout Society

Byung-Chul Han
4.0 (194 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Burnout Society about?

The Burnout Society (2010) delves into the contemporary epidemic of exhaustion and mental overload, revealing how your pursuit of success and productivity in a hyper-connected world might be leading to a state of collective burnout. It challenges you to rethink societal norms and personal values, offering insights into navigating the pressures of modern life. 

Who should read The Burnout Society?

  • Professionals seeking work-life balance
  • Students studying societal trends and psychology
  • Advocates for mental health and wellness

51
Culture Books: Single, Dating, Engaged, Married by Ben Stuart

Single, Dating, Engaged, Married

Ben Stuart
Navigating Life and Love in the Modern Age
2.6 (83 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Single, Dating, Engaged, Married about?

Single, Dating, Engaged, Married (2017) is filled with practical guidance for today’s Christian on four seasons of romantic relationship. This thoughtful collection of stories and scriptural wisdom offers ways to transform relationships, from navigating modern dating to honoring divine design within marriage.

Who should read Single, Dating, Engaged, Married?

  • Single Christians wondering if being alone is really part of God’s plan
  • Dating Christians who want to know if their current partner is “the one”
  • Engaged Christians about to embark on the adventure of marriage

52
Culture Books: Either/Or by Soren Kierkegaard

Either/Or

Soren Kierkegaard
A Fragment of Life
4.5 (182 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Either/Or about?

Either/Or (1843) contrasts aesthetic and ethical approaches to life through a series of fictional letters between two characters. Their dialogue explores themes of existential anxiety, subjectivity, and the search for meaning, and became foundational for 20th century existentialism.

Who should read Either/Or?

  • Philosophy enthusiasts
  • Anyone seeking intellectual stimulation
  • Individuals interested in existential themes

53
Culture Books: The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction by Walter Benjamin
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction about?

The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction (1935) is a pioneering examination of how mechanical reproduction – particularly via photography and film – transformed the nature, value, and perception of art. It explores the concept of the "aura" of a work of art and how this aura diminishes in a reproduced work.

Who should read The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction?

  • Art history students
  • Modern artists and critics
  • Scholars interested in media theory

54
Culture Books: Notes from Underground by Fyodor Dostoevsky

Notes from Underground

Fyodor Dostoevsky
3.6 (47 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Notes from Underground about?

Notes from Underground (1864) is a stark exploration of the human condition. It delves into the innermost recesses of a deeply introspective protagonist's mind, unearthing radical thoughts on reason, free will, and suffering.

Who should read Notes from Underground?

  • Psychology enthusiasts
  • Existentialism explorers
  • Classic literature aficionados

55
Culture Books: The Stranger by Albert Camus

The Stranger

Albert Camus
4.5 (128 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Stranger about?

The Stranger (1942) is widely considered a classic in twentieth-century literature. It tells the tale of a murder in Algiers, and the unusual trial that follows. While there’s no mystery as to who did the killing, the story raises many questions about what makes a person guilty in the eyes of their community.

Who should read The Stranger?

  • Fans of classic literature
  • Anyone interested in philosophy
  • People curious about existentialism and absurdism

56
Culture Books: Dancing in the Streets by Barbara Ehrenreich

Dancing in the Streets

Barbara Ehrenreich
A History of Collective Joy
4.0 (16 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Dancing in the Streets about?

Dancing in the Streets (2008) explores the deep-rooted origins of communal celebration in human biology and culture, highlighting universal elements like carnival, music-making, and dance. It reveals how such practices were integral to Western traditions – from the ancient Greek worship of Dionysus to medieval Christianity as a “danced religion”. 

Who should read Dancing in the Streets?

  • Cultural historians interested in the social and cultural evolution of civilizations
  • Social activists keen to reclaim our legacy of community and collective joy
  • Artists and performers delving into the cultural contexts of their creative practice

57
Culture Books: Bad Therapy by Abigail Shrier

Bad Therapy

Abigail Shrier
Why the Kids Aren't Growing Up
4.3 (246 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Bad Therapy about?

Bad Therapy (2024) explores the unintended consequences of therapy culture and its impact on young people's resilience and well-being. It argues that by overemphasizing emotional fragility and shielding youth from adversity, modern parenting and therapeutic practices may be inadvertently hindering the development of essential life skills in our youngest generations.

Who should read Bad Therapy?

  • Parents concerned about the impact of modern parenting and therapy practices on their children's development and well-being
  • Advocates for personal responsibility, grit, and the importance of learning from adversity in character development
  • Anyone exploring the broader implications of therapy culture on society and the human experience

58
Culture Books: Atlas of AI by Kate Crawford

Atlas of AI

Kate Crawford
Power, Politics, and the Planetary Costs of Artificial Intelligence
3.4 (124 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Atlas of AI about?

Atlas of AI (2021) reveals how AI is a technology of extraction, from minerals to labor to data. It presents AI as a global network which is driving a shift toward undemocratic governance and political centralization.

Who should read Atlas of AI?

  • Entrepreneurs and policymakers seeking to inform themselves about the AI industry
  • People interested in the intersection of technology, politics, and society
  • Anyone concerned about the social and moral consequences of emerging technologies

59
Culture Books: The Culture Map by Erin Meyer

The Culture Map

Erin Meyer
Breaking Through the Invisible Boundaries of Global Business
4.5 (34 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Culture Map about?

The Culture Map provides a framework for handling intercultural differences in business and illustrates how different cultures perceive the world. It helps us understand these differences, and in doing so improves our ability to react to certain behaviors that might have once seemed strange. With this knowledge, we can avoid misunderstandings and maintain conflict-free communication, regardless of where we are in the world.

Who should read The Culture Map?

  • Anyone who’s interested in understanding cultural differences at work
  • Anyone who wants to improve his or her communications skills
  • Anyone who is leading an international team and is facing culture clashes

60
Culture Books: Practical Ethics by Peter Singer

Practical Ethics

Peter Singer
Uncover Key Ethical Questions Shaping Our Actions and Choices
4.2 (142 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Practical Ethics about?

Practical Ethics (1979) explores how ethical reasoning can be applied to real-world issues and everyday decisions. It challenges readers to critically examine their moral assumptions, offering thought-provoking arguments on topics ranging from animal rights and abortion to global poverty and environmental responsibility.

Who should read Practical Ethics?

  • Philosophy lovers with an interest in ethics and society
  • Those interested in the ethical and moral implications of contemporary political rhetoric and governmental policies
  • Anyone interested in exploring their personal values and worldviews

61
Culture Books: Public Opinion by Walter Lippmann

Public Opinion

Walter Lippmann
Uncover the Hidden Forces Shaping Public Perception
4.3 (57 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Public Opinion about?

Public Opinion (1922) offers valuable insights into how media and psychological factors shape our perceptions of the world and influence public opinion. It provides a thought-provoking analysis of how “reality” can be distorted and how our understanding and decision-making, as well as public opinion, can be influenced.

Who should read Public Opinion?

  • Political science buffs
  • People worried about democracy
  • Anyone interested in media literacy

62
Culture Books: What It Takes to Heal by Prentis Hemphill

What It Takes to Heal

Prentis Hemphill
How Transforming Ourselves Can Change the World
3.9 (78 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's What It Takes to Heal about?

What It Takes to Heal (2024) explores the interconnected nature of personal and collective healing, drawing on the author’s experiences as a therapist, facilitator, and social justice advocate. It offers insights into how trauma manifests in individuals and communities, emphasizing the importance of understanding your own healing journey in relation to broader societal issues. Through a blend of personal anecdotes, practical exercises, and philosophical reflections, it provides a roadmap for cultivating resilience, compassion, and transformative change.

Who should read What It Takes to Heal?

  • Self-help enthusiasts and mindfulness practitioners
  • Social justice activists and organizers
  • Community leaders and educators

63
Culture Books: The Truth About Immigration by Zeke Hernandez

The Truth About Immigration

Zeke Hernandez
Why Successful Societies Welcome Newcomers
3.5 (137 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Truth About Immigration about?

The Truth About Immigration (2024) offers a fact-based, comprehensive, and nonpartisan look at immigration, debunking common myths and fears. It reveals the overwhelmingly positive impact of immigration on job creation, investment, innovation, cultural vitality, and national security, showing how newcomers benefit local communities and the nation as a whole.

Who should read The Truth About Immigration?

  • Policymakers shaping immigration laws
  • Community organizers advocating for social integration
  • Business leaders interested in workforce diversity

64
Culture Books: The Horse by Timothy C. Winegard

The Horse

Timothy C. Winegard
A Galloping History of Humanity
4.5 (41 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Horse about?

The Horse (2024) offers a sweeping exploration of how horses have shaped human civilization across millennia. From their evolutionary origins to their roles in warfare, agriculture, and culture, the book explores the profound and often overlooked impact of these majestic animals on the course of human history. 

Who should read The Horse?

  • History buffs interested in social and cultural history
  • Animal lovers and equestrians curious about the history of human-horse collaboration
  • Anyone curious about the unexpected forces behind cultural evolution

65
Culture Books: The Meaning of Life by Terry Eagleton

The Meaning of Life

Terry Eagleton
A Very Short Introduction
4.1 (197 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Meaning of Life about?

The Meaning of Life (2007) explores how the way we use language shapes our search for meaning. Rather than offering a straightforward answer, it challenges you to think about whether the question of life’s meaning is even the right one to ask. Through the lens of thinkers like Wittgenstein and Nietzsche, you’ll uncover how our words and ideas might create the very puzzles we struggle to solve.

Who should read The Meaning of Life?

  • Philosophy enthusiasts seeking fresh perspectives on existential questions
  • Language and communication students exploring the impact of words on thought
  • Curious minds interested in the relationship between language and meaning

66
Culture Books: There's Always This Year by Hanif Abdurraqib

There's Always This Year

Hanif Abdurraqib
On Basketball and Ascension
3.6 (14 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's There's Always This Year about?

There’s Always This Year (2024) is a reflective exploration of the intersections among sport, culture, and personal experience. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and cultural commentary, it offers a unique perspective on the complexities and nuances of home, identity, life, and success – both on the basketball court and off. 

Who should read There's Always This Year?

  • Basketball enthusiasts 
  • Cultural critics analyzing sports through a societal lens 
  • Fans of personal essays and reflective storytelling

67
Culture Books: Of Boys and Men by Richard Reeves

Of Boys and Men

Richard Reeves
Why Modern Men Struggle, Why It Matters, and How to Fix It
3.9 (22 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Of Boys and Men about?

Of Boys and Men (2022) explores the complex challenges that boys and men encounter in today’s society. Tackling these problems, Richard Reeves argues, requires a shift in our perspective on gender issues. Supporting males to overcome challenges doesn’t detract from the pursuit of gender equality – it complements it and helps foster a more equitable and inclusive world.

Who should read Of Boys and Men?

  • Educators seeking strategies to support male students
  • Parents of boys navigating modern challenges
  • Policy makers focused on gender equality initiatives

68
Culture Books: Utopia by Thomas More

Utopia

Thomas More
Dive Into a Classic Vision of the Ideal World and Its Challenges
4.6 (19 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Utopia about?

Utopia (1516) is a fictional account of an ideal island nation that radically reimagines society without private property, money, or religious intolerance. This influential work explores revolutionary concepts like universal education, health care, and democratic governance while using irony and ambiguity to challenge assumptions about the nature of a perfect world.

Who should read Utopia?

  • Philosophy enthusiasts – especially those intrigued by social and political philosophy
  • Social critics analyzing contemporary issues through historical lenses
  • Anyone curious about influential ideas that have shaped modern debates about society

69
Culture Books: Making Sense of Chaos by J Doyne Farmer

Making Sense of Chaos

J Doyne Farmer
A Better Economics for a Better World
3.8 (13 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Making Sense of Chaos about?

Making Sense of Chaos (2024) offers a fresh take on our complex economic world through the lens of complexity economics. It explores new computational tools and models that address issues like inflation, inequality, and financial crises – and shows how we can make better predictions and craft smarter policies in an increasingly interconnected and turbulent global economy.

Who should read Making Sense of Chaos?

  • Economics enthusiasts
  • Tech and data science buffs
  • Policymakers and analysts

70
Culture Books: When the Clock Broke by John Ganz

When the Clock Broke

John Ganz
Con Men, Conspiracists, and How America Cracked Up in the Early 1990s
4.0 (77 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's When the Clock Broke about?

When the Clock Broke (2024) delivers a fascinating look into the years leading up to the 1992 Presidential Election, between Bill Clinton, Ross Perot, and the incumbent George H.W. Bush. It reveals how a relatively small movement took root and began to transform the Republican Party into a more populist and authoritarian version of conservatism. It also shows why this approach appeals to the disaffected groups in America.

Who should read When the Clock Broke?

  • History buffs
  • Political junkies
  • Cultural critics

71
Culture Books: Autocracy, Inc. by Anne Applebaum

Autocracy, Inc.

Anne Applebaum
The Dictators Who Want to Run the World
3.9 (69 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Autocracy, Inc. about?

Autocracy, Inc. (2024) explores the intricate networks that link modern authoritarian regimes, highlighting how they collaborate through financial corruption, surveillance technologies, and propaganda to weaken democratic institutions globally. It reveals that these regimes, while not united by ideology, are bound together by a shared pursuit of power and impunity, challenging the democratic world in unprecedented ways.

Who should read Autocracy, Inc.?

  • Students and scholars of political science and international relations
  • Advocates and activists working to defend democracy and human rights
  • Business leaders and economists interested in global market dynamics under autocratic regimes

72
Culture Books: The Human Condition by Hannah Arendt

The Human Condition

Hannah Arendt
Uncover the Dangers of Humanity’s Increasing Capabilities
3.8 (151 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Human Condition about?

The Human Condition (1958) invites you to explore how action, labor, and work shape your life and the world you live in. Through these core activities, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of what freedom truly means, see how your daily choices impact society, and reflect on your role in the ongoing story of human experience.

Who should read The Human Condition?

  • Philosophy enthusiasts interested in the nature of human existence
  • Politics junkies wanting to explore the role of action in society
  • Anyone curious about the interplay between public and private life

73
Culture Books: Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here by Jonathan Blitzer

Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here

Jonathan Blitzer
The United States, Central America, and the Making of a Crisis
3.9 (13 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here about?

Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here (2024) brings you face-to-face with the forces behind the Central American migration crisis. It showcases stories of people risking everything to reach the US, revealing how decades of political choices and corruption shaped this humanitarian disaster. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of the crisis and its lasting impact on both Central America and the United States.

Who should read Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here?

  • Politics buffs interested in the roots of Central America’s migration crisis
  • Policy experts looking for an insightful analysis of immigration challenges
  • Anyone who enjoys real-world stories with political and human stakes

74
Culture Books: The $12 Million Stuffed Shark by Don Thompson

The $12 Million Stuffed Shark

Don Thompson
The Curious Economics of Contemporary Art
4.2 (83 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The $12 Million Stuffed Shark about?

The $12 Million Stuffed Shark (2008) examines the economics and marketing strategies behind the contemporary art world, exploring how pieces like Damien Hirst’s shark sculpture and Jackson Pollock’s drip paintings command such astronomical prices. Covering auction houses, dealers, and collectors, it reveals the forces that drive art market valuations and the role of branding in an artist’s financial success.

Who should read The $12 Million Stuffed Shark?

  • Art enthusiasts wanting to build a collection
  • Aspiring artists who want a snapshot of the contemporary art market
  • Economists interested in learning more about a niche asset class

75
Culture Books: How Economics Explains the World by Andrew Leigh

How Economics Explains the World

Andrew Leigh
A Short History of Humanity
4.0 (182 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's How Economics Explains the World about?

How Economics Explains the World (2024) offers a sweeping narrative of human history through the lens of economic forces – from the agricultural revolution to the age of artificial intelligence. This concise yet comprehensive work illuminates how ingenuity, market dynamics, and the pursuit of progress have profoundly shaped our past and present, while also examining the economic challenges that will define our future.

Who should read How Economics Explains the World?

  • History enthusiasts seeking to understand global events through an economic lens
  • Students of economics looking for a concise overview of the discipline's impact on society
  • Policy makers interested in the historical context of economic decisions

76
Culture Books: Follow the Science by Sharyl Attkisson

Follow the Science

Sharyl Attkisson
How Big Pharma Misleads, Obscures, and Prevails
2.9 (206 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Follow the Science about?

Follow the Science (2024) investigates the deep influence of the pharmaceutical industry on medicine, government, and media. It highlights how profit motives and high-level collusion have led to misinformation, ethical violations, and the suppression of critical voices. It encourages you to examine the sources of your health care information critically.

Who should read Follow the Science?

  • Investigative journalism enthusiasts interested in exposing industry corruption
  • Healthcare professionals critical of pharmaceutical industry practices
  • Anyone skeptical of mainstream media and medical narratives

77
Culture Books: Hope for Cynics by Jamil Zaki

Hope for Cynics

Jamil Zaki
The Surprising Science of Human Goodness
4.3 (146 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Hope for Cynics about?

Hope For Cynics (2024) explores the widespread cynicism in modern society and its detrimental effects. It argues that this pessimistic worldview is often misplaced, as people tend to underestimate the kindness and generosity of others. It proposes “hopeful skepticism” as an antidote to cynicism, encouraging you to think critically while recognizing human strengths.

Who should read Hope for Cynics?

  • Those feeling disillusioned and hopeless about society
  • Concerned citizens seeking ways to bridge ideological divides
  • Anyone interested in human nature and the possibilities of cooperation

78
Culture Books: Parasitic Mind by Gad Saad

Parasitic Mind

Gad Saad
How Infectious Ideas Are Killing Common Sense
4.0 (46 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Parasitic Mind about?

The Parasitic Mind (2020) examines how certain ideologies have infiltrated modern society, threatening reason, freedom, and intellectual diversity. It explores how these “idea pathogens” spread from universities to politics, business, and culture, leading to emotional thinking and intellectual conformity. It argues for a return to critical thinking, science, and free speech to combat these harmful beliefs.

Who should read Parasitic Mind?

  • Critical thinkers concerned about the erosion of free speech
  • University students navigating ideological conformity in academic environments
  • Educators seeking to promote intellectual diversity and free inquiry

79
Culture Books: On Palestine by Noam Chomsky, Ilan Pappé

On Palestine

Noam Chomsky, Ilan Pappé
Examine the Roots of Conflict and the Path to Justice in Palestine
3.4 (95 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's On Palestine about?

On Palestine (2014) offers a thought-provoking exploration of one of the world’s most contentious conflicts. It challenges prevailing narratives in an effort to uncover the historical and political forces that have shaped the fate of the Palestinian people, aiming to inspire critical reflection on the future of the region and unearth ways in which a more just outcome may prevail.

Who should read On Palestine?

  • Anyone interested in Middle Eastern politics
  • Human rights advocates
  • Activists involved in peace movements

80
Culture Books: The Sublime Object of Ideology by Slavoj Zizek

The Sublime Object of Ideology

Slavoj Zizek
Uncover the Hidden Forces Shaping Ideology and Human Perception
4.4 (18 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Sublime Object of Ideology about?

The Sublime Object of Ideology (1989) explores how ideology shapes our perception of reality and influences our desires, even in a supposedly post-ideological world. The book examines the unconscious structures underlying our beliefs, the nature of social and political symptoms, and the paradoxical enjoyment we derive from ideological systems, offering a fresh perspective on how meaning is constructed in society. 

Who should read The Sublime Object of Ideology?

  • Philosophy lovers looking to understand complex contemporary thinkers
  • Cultural critics interested in fresh perspectives on ideology and society
  • Anyone grappling with questions of identity and societal influence in the modern world

81
Culture Books: The Demon of Unrest by Erik Larson

The Demon of Unrest

Erik Larson
A Saga of Hubris, Heartbreak, and Heroism at the Dawn of the Civil War
4.2 (53 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Demon of Unrest about?

The Demon of Unrest (2024) captures the dramatic chaos and pivotal moments of the American Civil War's early days. It vividly recounts the fall of Fort Sumter and delves into the intense emotions and strategic maneuvers that precipitated the event. Painting an eerily relevant portrait of a world on the brink of war, it displays how every decision and action at this critical time had the potential to alter the course of history.

Who should read The Demon of Unrest?

  • History buffs fascinated by the lead-up to the Civil War
  • Fans of political drama and pivotal historical events
  • Fans of narrative non-fiction

82
Culture Books: Too Smart by Jathan Sadowski

Too Smart

Jathan Sadowski
How Digital Capitalism Is Taking Over the World
3.9 (120 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Too Smart about?

Too Smart (2020) examines the hidden costs and societal impacts of our increasingly connected digital world. It reveals how smart technologies, while promising convenience and efficiency, are fundamentally altering power dynamics, economies, and personal freedoms by extracting and commodifying our data.

Who should read Too Smart?

  • Tech enthusiasts curious about the broader implications of smart devices
  • Privacy advocates concerned about data collection and surveillance
  • Anyone looking to make more informed decisions about their digital habits

83
Culture Books: Reconnected by Carlos Whittaker

Reconnected

Carlos Whittaker
Seven Screen-Free Weeks to Rediscover the Art of Being Human
4.0 (7 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Reconnected about?

Reconnected (2024) explores the profound impact of disconnecting from technology in our hyper-connected world. It chronicles a personal journey of digital detox, offering insights on reclaiming focus, deepening relationships, and rediscovering life's simple joys. 

Who should read Reconnected?

  • People feeling overwhelmed by constant connectivity
  • Digital professionals seeking better work-life balance
  • Anyone concerned about their or their family's amount of screen time

84
Culture Books: Living Resistance by Kaitlin B. Curtice

Living Resistance

Kaitlin B. Curtice
An Indigenous Vision for Seeking Wholeness Every Day
3.3 (110 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Living Resistance about?

Living Resistance (2023) redefines resistance as a universal, everyday calling rooted in connection, belonging, and holistic flourishing. Inspired by the sacred practices of the Potawatomi Nation and other Indigenous traditions worldwide, it empowers readers to seek wholeness and liberation within their own spheres of influence, emphasizing that every act of resistance contributes to collective well-being.

Who should read Living Resistance?

  • Activists and advocates who want to deepen their resistance practice
  • Community organizers with an interest in collective flourishing
  • Anyone ready to heighten their connection to themselves, their community, and the Earth

85
Culture Books: Habits of a Peacemaker by Steven T. Collis

Habits of a Peacemaker

Steven T. Collis
10 Habits to Turn Toxic Conversations Into Healthy Dialogues
4.6 (30 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Habits of a Peacemaker about?

Habits of a Peacemaker (2024) provides practical habits to help individuals engage in productive, respectful conversations, even on divisive topics. It emphasizes building relationships through open dialogue and offers tools for managing challenging discussions with civility and understanding. By fostering these habits, you can bridge divides and bring peace to your personal and professional life.

Who should read Habits of a Peacemaker?

  • Leaders seeking to improve communication in difficult situations
  • Individuals wanting to resolve conflicts more effectively
  • Professionals handling sensitive discussions in diverse environments

86
Culture Books: The Battle for Your Brain by Nita A. Farahany

The Battle for Your Brain

Nita A. Farahany
Defending the Right to Think Freely in the Age of Neurotechnology
4.2 (101 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Battle for Your Brain about?

The Battle for Your Brain (2023) explores the emerging field of neurotechnology and its impact on cognitive liberty. It delves into how this technology will enable unprecedented brain tracking and hacking – raising ethical concerns about mental privacy, freedom of thought, and individual self-determination. 

Who should read The Battle for Your Brain?

  • Ethics and philosophy students 
  • Neurotechnology researchers and developers 
  • Policymakers focused on emerging technologies 

87
Culture Books: The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt

The Righteous Mind

Jonathan Haidt
Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion
4.4 (19 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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What's The Righteous Mind about?

The Righteous Mind (2012) explores how moral decisions are made, concluding that moral judgments stem from intuitions, not logic. The author draws on his background in social psychology and 25 years of groundbreaking research to explain how morality both binds us and divides us and how religion and politics create conflicting communities of shared morality.

Who should read The Righteous Mind?

  • Anyone who wants to learn how moral decisions are made
  • Anyone interested in understanding how our moral interests both unify and divide us

88
Culture Books: Good People by Gabriel Reilich, Lucia Knell

Good People

Gabriel Reilich, Lucia Knell
Stories From the Best of Humanity
3.8 (10 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Good People about?

Good People (2024) is a heartwarming collection of real-life stories that showcase the power of everyday kindness and empathy. Through diverse narratives of compassion in action, it explores the impact that small acts of goodwill can have on individuals and communities, offering a hopeful perspective on human nature in an often challenging world. 

Who should read Good People?

  • Those seeking a positive perspective amid all the negative news
  • Individuals interested in personal growth and emotional intelligence
  • Anyone going through a difficult time who’s in need of hope

89
Culture Books: On Freedom by Timothy Snyder

On Freedom

Timothy Snyder
Explore Freedom’s Deeper Meaning Beyond Resistance and Control
4.2 (10 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's On Freedom about?

On Freedom (2024) challenges us to rethink what it means to be truly free in a world increasingly dominated by political and economic tyranny. It weaves together history, philosophy, and urgent contemporary issues, illustrating how our pursuit of freedom is intertwined with the structures that support it. It inspires people to reflect on their role in safeguarding democracy and creating a more equitable future. 

Who should read On Freedom?

  • History and political buffs
  • Fans of democracy
  • Students of sociology and economics

90
Culture Books: Revenge of the Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell

Revenge of the Tipping Point

Malcolm Gladwell
Overstories, Superspreaders, and the Rise of Social Engineering
3.9 (174 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Revenge of the Tipping Point about?

Revenge of the Tipping Point (2024) is the long-anticipated follow-up to Malcolm Gladwell’s debut, The Tipping Point. A study of virality and contagion, it interweaves startling case studies and perplexing puzzles to illuminate our age of social upheaval. 

Who should read Revenge of the Tipping Point?

  • Enthusiasts of social psychology and behavioral economics
  • Readers interested in societal trends and transformations
  • Fans of Malcolm Gladwell’s narrative style and insights

91
Culture Books: Children of Ash and Elm by Neil Price

Children of Ash and Elm

Neil Price
A History of the Vikings
4.1 (31 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Children of Ash and Elm about?

Children of Ash and Elm (2020) provides a sweeping and nuanced exploration of the Viking Age, spanning the years 750 to 1050. Rather than relying on the distorted narratives shaped by historical biases, it delves deeply into the Vikings' culture, politics, and cosmology, offering a more authentic portrayal of their world. It highlights the Vikings’ profound impact as traders, raiders, explorers, and colonists, tracing their influence across an astonishingly vast region – from the eastern shores of North America to the Asian steppe. 

Who should read Children of Ash and Elm?

  • History enthusiasts fascinated by Viking culture and expansion
  • Readers interested in authentic, archaeologically-backed historical narratives
  • Scholars exploring pre-Christian religions and ancient cosmologies

92
Culture Books: The Message by Ta-Nehisi Coates

The Message

Ta-Nehisi Coates
Exploring Myths that Shape our Identity and Reality
3.7 (29 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Message about?

The Message (2024) is a study of framing, narrative, myth, and the stories power tells to excuse injustice. Drawing on the interconnected histories of Black America, Africa, and Palestine, it presents a compelling moral argument: only that which is truly seen can be cared for and cultivated.

Who should read The Message?

  • Readers interested in African-American culture and history
  • Fans of thought-provoking, narrative-driven essays
  • Admirers of Ta-Nehisi Coates’ work

93
Culture Books: Patriot by Alexei Navalny

Patriot

Alexei Navalny
A Memoir
4.4 (29 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Patriot about?

Patriot (2024) is the final testament of Russia’s most prominent opposition leader. Written in the aftermath of his poisoning, it chronicles his journey from activist to political prisoner, weaving together his personal life, political battles, and unwavering fight for democracy.

Who should read Patriot?

  • Anyone interested in how modern opposition movements adapt and survive
  • Digital activists and social media strategists
  • Fans of modern history

94
Culture Books: Raising Girls Who Like Themselves by Kasey Edwards, Christopher Scanlon

Raising Girls Who Like Themselves

Kasey Edwards, Christopher Scanlon
In a world that tells them they're flawed
4.3 (125 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Raising Girls Who Like Themselves about?

Raising Girls Who Like Themselves (2021) is a practical, research-backed guide for parents aiming to nurture happy, confident daughters who can thrive in a world that often undermines their self-worth. By fostering key traits such as body confidence, independence, and resilience, it empowers girls to become self-assured, healthy, and secure.

Who should read Raising Girls Who Like Themselves?

  • Parents who want to raise resilient, optimistic daughters
  • Teachers who want to support girls mental health and self-esteem 
  • Caregivers who want practical strategies for cultivating confidence in girls

95
Culture Books: Indian Philosophy by Sue Hamilton

Indian Philosophy

Sue Hamilton
A Very Short Introduction
4.2 (15 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Indian Philosophy about?

Indian Philosophy (2001) takes you on a journey through three thousand years of profound thinking about consciousness, reality, and what it means to be human. From ancient ritual practices to sophisticated theories of knowledge, you'll discover how Indian thinkers approached life's deepest questions in ways that still resonate today. 

Who should read Indian Philosophy?

  • Anyone fascinated by how ancient wisdom speaks to modern questions
  • Seekers exploring the deeper roots of meditation and yoga
  • Thinkers curious about different approaches to understanding consciousness

96
Culture Books: Melania by Melania Trump

Melania

Melania Trump
3.3 (51 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Melania about?

Melania (2024) provides an intimate glimpse into the fascinating life of Melania Trump, tracing her journey from modest beginnings in Slovenia to her role as First Lady of the United States. Through heartfelt reflections and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, it highlights her experiences with motherhood, the challenges of public life, and the unwavering resilience and grace that have defined one of America’s most captivating figures.

Who should read Melania?

  • Fans of engaging personal narratives and political memoirs
  • Those curious about Melania Trump’s life and experiences
  • Individuals intrigued by life inside the White House

97
Culture Books: More Than Pretty Boxes by Carrie M. Lane

More Than Pretty Boxes

Carrie M. Lane
How the Rise of Professional Organizing Shows Us the Way We Work Isn't Working
4.3 (4 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's More Than Pretty Boxes about?

More Than Pretty Boxes (2024) investigates how professional organizers do far more than just help people tidy up – they reveal fundamental problems with how modern life is structured, especially for women. Through deep examination of the organizing industry, the book shows how struggles with clutter and chaos reflect larger systemic issues, while offering a path forward through both personal and collective change. 

Who should read More Than Pretty Boxes?

  • People who feel overwhelmed by traditional organizing advice
  • Curious culture mavens exploring modern work and consumption patterns 
  • Anyone interested in minimalism, decluttering, or simple living who wants to understand the deeper psychology behind their relationship with stuff

98
Culture Books: Eclipse of Reason by Max Horkheimer

Eclipse of Reason

Max Horkheimer
On Reclaiming the Individual and Fighting Oppression
4.1 (28 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Eclipse of Reason about?

Eclipse of Reason (1947) uncovers how the very rationality that was once meant to free humanity became a tool of oppression and alienation. It charts the evolution of our ideas about what is right and wrong, and how these ideas have gotten twisted by the deep contradictions in modern society. This thought-provoking work invites a critical reevaluation of reason itself, offering a path toward true liberation and social transformation.

Who should read Eclipse of Reason?

  • Philosophy enthusiasts
  • Sociology students and scholars
  • Critics of modern capitalism

99
Culture Books: Cher by Cher

Cher

Cher
The Memoir
4.3 (3 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Cher about?

Cher (2024) finds the legendary singer and actress opening up about her extraordinary journey through fame, love, and personal transformation. It’s a literal rags to riches take of growing up poor to hosting one of the most popular television shows in the country. In recounting the many ups and downs and troubled relationships along the way, it reveals the woman behind the icon, filled with raw honesty, humor, and unforgettable moments.

Who should read Cher?

  • Cher fanatics and music lovers
  • Pop culture enthusiasts
  • Anyone interested in inspiring stories of overcoming adversity

100
Culture Books: The Power of Bridging by john a. powell

The Power of Bridging

john a. powell
How to Build a World Where We All Belong
5.0 (1 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Power of Bridging about?

The Power of Bridging (2024) presents “bridging” as an approach to overcoming social division. Drawing on research that shows an overwhelming public desire to reduce divisiveness, it offers practical strategies for building connections in all areas of life, from communities and workplaces to friendships and family relationships.

Who should read The Power of Bridging?

  • Activists who need to build a coalition without neglecting core values
  • Educators supporting students to navigate a divided society
  • Community leaders whose work unites disparate groups and interests

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 FAQs 

What's the best Culture book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Musicophilia as the ultimate read on Culture.

What are the Top 10 Culture books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Musicophilia by Oliver Sacks
  • Civilization by Niall Ferguson
  • How Music Works by David Byrne
  • The Monopolists by Mary Pilon
  • The Millionaire Next Door by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko
  • Orientalism by Edward W. Said
  • Stuffocation by James Wallman
  • The Gift of Failure by Jessica Lahey
  • Thinking in Systems by Donella H. Meadows
  • The Wisdom of Insecurity by Alan Watts

Who are the top Culture book authors?

When it comes to Culture, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Oliver Sacks
  • Niall Ferguson
  • David Byrne
  • Mary Pilon
  • Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko