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
How do we create content on this page?
1
Culture Books: Musicophilia by Oliver Sacks

Musicophilia

Oliver Sacks
Tales of Music and the Brain
4.4 (88 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 (148 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: Click by Rom and Ori Brafman

Click

Rom and Ori Brafman
4.1 (108 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Click about?

Click (2010) delves into the miraculous topic of quick-set intimacy and explores what’s at work when we’re instantly drawn to some person or thing. It examines how and why clicking makes our life more meaningful and outlines the (very ordinary) factors that can make such “magical” connections more likely.

Who should read Click?

  • Anyone who has always wondered about the hidden dynamics of love at first sight
  • Anyone striving to establish more meaningful relationships in their everyday life
  • Anyone working with teams and trying to enable them to perform better

4
Culture Books: How Music Works by David Byrne

How Music Works

David Byrne
4.5 (123 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

5
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 (18 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

6
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 (469 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

7
Culture Books: Orientalism by Edward W. Said

Orientalism

Edward W. Said
Western Conceptions of the Orient
3.9 (219 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

8
Culture Books: Stuffocation by James Wallman

Stuffocation

James Wallman
Living More with Less
4.2 (122 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

9
Culture Books: In Praise of Slowness by Carl Honoré

In Praise of Slowness

Carl Honoré
Challenging the Cult Of Speed
4.1 (168 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's In Praise of Slowness about?

In Praise of Slowness (2005) offers both an indictment of and an alternative to the high-speed lifestyle that plagues many people today. It examines how the rat race impacts our minds, bodies and souls – and offers concrete tips on how to slow things down.

Who should read In Praise of Slowness?

  • Ambitious parents who push their children to have a very busy schedule
  • Anyone who eats at their desk
  • People who feel like they are always in a rush

10
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
4.6 (56 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

11
Culture Books: Thinking in Systems by Donella H. Meadows

Thinking in Systems

Donella H. Meadows
A Primer
4.3 (266 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

12
Culture Books: At Home by Bill Bryson

At Home

Bill Bryson
A Short History of Private Life
3.9 (143 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's At Home about?

At Home (2010) offers an in-depth look at the history of the home. These blinks walk you through stories that each “take place” in a different room in a house, explaining the history of spaces such as a bathroom or kitchen. Interestingly, you’ll explore how each space evolved into the rooms we live in today.

Who should read At Home?

  • Students of sociology, anthropology and history
  • People with an interest in the history of domestic life

13
Culture Books: The Wisdom of Insecurity by Alan Watts

The Wisdom of Insecurity

Alan Watts
A Message for an Age of Anxiety
4.5 (428 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

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

14
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 (193 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

15
Culture Books: Going Solo by Eric Klinenberg

Going Solo

Eric Klinenberg
The Extraordinary Rise and Surprising Appeal of Living Alone
3.5 (223 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Going Solo about?

Going Solo (2012) explains the sociological factors that have led so many adults to live on their own. These blinks detail the history of solo living, describe the benefits of choosing such a lifestyle and explore the different conditions under which solo adults live.

Who should read Going Solo?

  • Sociology students
  • Newly single people
  • Bachelors and bachelorettes everywhere

16
Culture Books: The Aesthetic Brain by Anjan Chatterjee

The Aesthetic Brain

Anjan Chatterjee
How We Evolved to Desire Beauty and Enjoy Art
4.5 (58 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Aesthetic Brain about?

The Aesthetic Brain (2014) explains how and why the human brain responds to beauty and art. These blinks break down the reasons why we instinctively prefer some faces to others, what art does to our brains and how we started making art in the first place.

Who should read The Aesthetic Brain?

  • Artists and art lovers
  • Students of psychology and anthropology
  • Curious readers interested in how beauty takes shape in the eye of the beholder

17
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 (414 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

18
Culture Books: The Art of Travel by Alain De Botton

The Art of Travel

Alain De Botton
4.1 (125 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Art of Travel about?

The Art of Travel (2002) is an unorthodox guide to traveling. Unlike conventional travel guides, Alain de Botton’s book is more of a philosophical globe-trotter’s handbook, exploring the reasons behind our urge to discover new places and offering some general tips for making travel more enjoyable.

Who should read The Art of Travel?

  • Avid travelers
  • Culture vultures
  • Aspiring authors and freelance journalists eager to work while on the move

19
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
4.3 (548 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

20
Culture Books: Enlightenment Now by Steven Pinker

Enlightenment Now

Steven Pinker
The Case For Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress
4.0 (303 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

21
Culture Books: The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker

The Art of Gathering

Priya Parker
How We Meet and Why It Matters
4.4 (196 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.

22
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 (224 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

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

23
Culture Books: The New Silk Roads by Peter Frankopan

The New Silk Roads

Peter Frankopan
The Present and Future of the World
3.9 (168 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

24
Culture Books: Palestine by Nur Masalha

Palestine

Nur Masalha
A Four Thousand Year History
3.8 (410 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

25
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
4.4 (174 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

26
Culture Books: Brave, Not Perfect by Reshma Saujani

Brave, Not Perfect

Reshma Saujani
Fear Less, Fail More, and Live Bolder
4.0 (167 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Brave, Not Perfect about?

Brave, Not Perfect (2019) opens up a new world to those women socialized from a young age to strive for perfection and please everyone around them. Perfection doesn’t always help you get ahead in the modern world – but bravery does. By embracing the power of bravery, women can emancipate themselves from the servitude of perfectionism, embrace the power of failure and achieve their dreams.

Who should read Brave, Not Perfect?

  • Women suffering under the weight of socially enforced perfectionism
  • Female entrepreneurs trying to get their business on the right track
  • Men who want to better learn how society conditions women

27
Culture Books: Joyful by Ingrid Fetell Lee

Joyful

Ingrid Fetell Lee
The Surprising Power of Ordinary Things to Create Extraordinary Happiness
4.0 (94 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Joyful about?

Joyful (2018) embraces aspects of color, shape, playfulness and whimsy that surround us in everyday life. These blinks make a positive case for the role that design and architecture can play in making lives more happy and joyful.

Who should read Joyful?

  • Designers 
  • DIY enthusiasts
  • New homeowners or renters

28
Culture Books: Why I Am a Hindu by Shashi Tharoor

Why I Am a Hindu

Shashi Tharoor
3.4 (216 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

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

29
Culture Books: A Biography of Loneliness by Fay Bound Alberti

A Biography of Loneliness

Fay Bound Alberti
The History of an Emotion
4.0 (142 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's A Biography of Loneliness about?

We tend to think of loneliness, like any emotion, as something universal. But its history is surprisingly recent. In A Biography of Loneliness, cultural historian Fay Bound Alberti traces the development of the modern concept of loneliness since its origins around 1800, and addresses the question of how it has gained such prominence in contemporary society.

Who should read A Biography of Loneliness?

  • People interested in cultural history
  • Anyone interested in emotions
  • Those concerned by the prevalence of loneliness today

30
Culture Books: Mythology by Edith Hamilton

Mythology

Edith Hamilton
Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes
4.5 (185 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

31
Culture Books: Maps of Meaning by Jordan B. Peterson

Maps of Meaning

Jordan B. Peterson
The Architecture of Belief
4.6 (570 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

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

32
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 (940 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

33
Culture Books: Man and His Symbols by Carl Jung

Man and His Symbols

Carl Jung
4.5 (350 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

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

34
Culture Books: The Book of Humans by Adam Rutherford

The Book of Humans

Adam Rutherford
A Brief History of Culture, Sex, War and the Evolution of Us
4.3 (225 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Book of Humans about?

The Book of Humans (2018) is an accessible tour of evolutionary history. It illuminates both the many qualities we share with animals and the many others that set us apart. Incorporating the latest scientific discoveries from genetics and archaeology, it provides a thrilling compendium of the rich variety of life on Earth.

Who should read The Book of Humans?

  • People seeking a primer on evolutionary biology
  • Darwin enthusiasts
  • Animal lovers

35
Culture Books: Grand Transitions by Vaclav Smil

Grand Transitions

Vaclav Smil
How the Modern World Was Made
4.3 (262 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

36
Culture Books: Woke, Inc. by Vivek Ramaswamy

Woke, Inc.

Vivek Ramaswamy
Inside Corporate America's Social Justice Scam
4.0 (243 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Woke, Inc. about?

Woke, Inc. (2021) explores how the ideology of wokeness has come to infect America’s corporate sphere. While paying lip service to various social-justice causes, major American companies are acting in ways that are anything but just –⁠ and generating major profit in the process. Aside from being a nefarious way for corporations to make money, this strategy is also doing lasting damage to American democracy in surprising ways, and it’s time to snuff it out.

Who should read Woke, Inc.?

  • Conservatives and centrists worried about the excesses of progressivism
  • Liberals who want to hear the other side’s perspective
  • Anyone interested in American social ills

37
Culture Books: Sex for One by Betty Dodson

Sex for One

Betty Dodson
The Joy of Selfloving
4.2 (202 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

38
Culture Books: This Is Your Mind on Plants by Michael Pollan

This Is Your Mind on Plants

Michael Pollan
4.3 (311 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's This Is Your Mind on Plants about?

This Is Your Mind on Plants (2021) is a vivid, intricate probe into the history, chemistry, and effects of three plant-derived drugs: opium, caffeine, and mescaline. These substances – a sedative, a stimulant, and a hallucinogen – represent a large part of the human experience with drugs. It’s time to shed new light on how they’ve shaped our histories, cultures, and minds.

Who should read This Is Your Mind on Plants?

  • Psychonauts and introspective thinkers
  • Botanists, plant lovers, and science geeks
  • Anyone interested in the history of the US war on drugs and its effects

39
Culture Books: Drive by Daniel Pink

Drive

Daniel Pink
The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us
4.6 (730 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

40
Culture Books: Renegades by Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen

Renegades

Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen
Born in the USA
4.1 (328 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Renegades about?

Renegades (2021) documents eight intimate and enlightening conversations between two living legends: the musician Bruce Springsteen and the former US president Barack Obama. These two friends delve into some of the issues that have defined both of their careers, including American identity, fatherhood, class and racial divides, wrestling with the past, and maintaining hope for the future.

Who should read Renegades?

  • American citizens concerned about the country’s future
  • Fans of “the Boss” and the forty-fourth president
  • Music buffs

41
Culture Books: Free Speech by Jacob Mchangama

Free Speech

Jacob Mchangama
A History from Socrates to Social Media
4.4 (177 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

42
Culture Books: Mythos by Stephen Fry

Mythos

Stephen Fry
A Retelling of the Myths of Ancient Greece
4.7 (625 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

43
Culture Books: This Naked Mind by Annie Grace

This Naked Mind

Annie Grace
Control Alcohol, Find Freedom, Discover Happiness & Change Your Life
4.2 (173 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

44
Culture Books: Guns, Germs and Steel by Jared Diamond

Guns, Germs and Steel

Jared Diamond
The Fates Of Human Societies
4.0 (525 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

45
Culture Books: In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts by Gabor Maté

In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts

Gabor Maté
Close Encounters with Addiction
4.4 (139 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

46
Culture Books: Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus by Nabeel Qureshi

Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus

Nabeel Qureshi
A Devout Muslim Encounters Christianity
4.1 (110 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 

47
Culture Books: The Prince and the Pauper by Mark Twain

The Prince and the Pauper

Mark Twain
4.6 (185 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

48
Culture Books: The Trial by Franz Kafka

The Trial

Franz Kafka
4.1 (28 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

49
Culture Books: The Birth of Tragedy by Friedrich Nietzsche

The Birth of Tragedy

Friedrich Nietzsche
4.0 (36 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

50
Culture Books: The Black Cat by Edgar Allen Poe

The Black Cat

Edgar Allen Poe
4.0 (19 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Black Cat about?

The Black Cat (1843) explores the dark themes of guilt, perversity, and violence. It's a tale of a man driven to self-destruction by his own malevolent actions and the haunting presence of a vengeful black cat.

Who should read The Black Cat?

  • Fans of Gothic fiction  
  • Psychology enthusiasts  
  • Horror literature aficionados

51
Culture Books: A Passage to India by E. M. Forster

A Passage to India

E. M. Forster
3.8 (90 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

52
Culture Books: The Last of the Mohicans  by James Fenimore Cooper

The Last of the Mohicans

James Fenimore Cooper
4.3 (25 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Last of the Mohicans about?

The Last of the Mohicans (1826) chronicles the thrilling journey of two daughters of a British Colonel, lost in Native American territory during the French and Indian War. It explores themes of racial and cultural conflict, intertwined with poignant romance.

Who should read The Last of the Mohicans ?

  • Fans of historical fiction
  • Readers keen on adventure tales
  • Individuals interested in Native American history

53
Culture Books: Daniel Deronda by George Eliot

Daniel Deronda

George Eliot
3.3 (10 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Daniel Deronda about?

Moving between love and duty, Daniel Deronda (1876) explores the life of its eponymous protagonist, torn between his loyalty to his past and an unfamiliar Jewish heritage. It navigates through societal expectations, morality, self-realization, and the idea of destiny in Victorian England.

Who should read Daniel Deronda?

  • Fans of classic literature
  • Students of Victorian England
  • History and society enthusiasts

54
Culture Books: The Idiot by Fyodor Dostoevsky

The Idiot

Fyodor Dostoevsky
4.0 (43 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

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

55
Culture Books: On the Genealogy of Morals by Friedrich Nietzsche

On the Genealogy of Morals

Friedrich Nietzsche
3.6 (53 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

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

56
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 (68 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

57
Culture Books: Spoon-Fed by Tim Spector

Spoon-Fed

Tim Spector
Why almost everything we've been told about food is wrong
3.9 (172 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

58
Culture Books: Foundation by Isaac Asimov

Foundation

Isaac Asimov
4.5 (73 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

59
Culture Books: The Status Game by Will Storr

The Status Game

Will Storr
On Human Life and How to Play It
4.4 (357 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Status Game about?

The Status Game (2019) explores the unspoken social hierarchies and competitions for status that drive much of human behavior. Examining the hidden rules of the status game provides insight into the psychological dynamics behind people’s everyday choices and interactions, clearing a path for the ethical player to maintain their locus while thriving in a chaotic world.

Who should read The Status Game?

  • People fascinated by psychology and human behavior
  • Those seeking self-knowledge and personal growth
  • All interested in social dynamics and influence

60
Culture Books: Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace

Infinite Jest

David Foster Wallace
4.0 (170 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Infinite Jest about?

Infinite Jest (1996) is considered a classic of postmodern literature. It weaves together a dizzying story of dozens of characters who are struggling to get by in a lonely, technologically oversaturated world. It also deals with the subjects of substance abuse and recovery in a deep and meaningful way.

Who should read Infinite Jest?

  • Fans of modern literature
  • Anyone interested in dystopian futures
  • People who feel isolated by technology

61
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 (168 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

62
Culture Books: The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

Douglas Adams
A Novel
4.2 (202 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

63
Culture Books: Ulysses by James Joyce

Ulysses

James Joyce
4.3 (99 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

64
Culture Books: Lagom by Linnea Dunne

Lagom

Linnea Dunne
The Swedish Art of Balanced Living
4.3 (52 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Lagom about?

Lagom (2017) introduces the Swedish attitude toward life that embodies the principle of “not too little, not too much, just enough.” It explores how this approach contributes to happiness and well-being – as evidenced by Sweden’s high ranking in the World Happiness Report – by being deeply rooted in community and responsibility. 

Who should read Lagom?

  • Busy professionals seeking balance
  • Environmentalists aiming for sustainable living practices
  • Community organizers needing to foster social bonds

65
Culture Books: The Order of Things by Michel Foucault

The Order of Things

Michel Foucault
An Archaeology of Human Sciences
4.2 (67 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Order of Things about?

The Order of Things (1966) is a philosophical examination of our most basic beliefs about knowledge. With depth and skill, it exposes the shaky foundations holding up society’s perceived truths and argues that much of what we know actually just relies on chance.

Who should read The Order of Things?

  • Philosophers interested in theories of language and knowledge
  • Students of history and science
  • Critical thinkers questioning modern scientific paradigms

66
Culture Books: The Burnout Society by Byung-Chul Han

The Burnout Society

Byung-Chul Han
4.0 (172 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

67
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 (49 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

68
Culture Books: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice

Jane Austen
4.0 (116 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Pride and Prejudice about?

Pride and Prejudice (1813) is the classic story of Elizabeth Bennet and Fitzwilliam Darcy, a couple who must overcome all manner of social and financial obstacles – including their own initial dislike of each other – to find lasting love.

Who should read Pride and Prejudice?

  • True romantics seeking an all-time classic love story
  • History buffs curious about class life in Regency-era England
  • Lovers of classic literature and period dramas

69
Culture Books: The Seven Circles by Chelsey Luger & Thosh Collins

The Seven Circles

Chelsey Luger & Thosh Collins
Indigenous Teachings for Living Well
4.7 (46 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Seven Circles about?

The Seven Circles (2022) draws on Indigenous ancestral wisdom for achieving spiritual, physical, and emotional well-being. It proposes a holistic model called the Seven Circles – a template for modern living that’s intended to keep all aspects of life in balance including food, movement, sleep, ceremony, sacred space, land, and community.

Who should read The Seven Circles?

  • People interested in Native American culture and spirituality
  • Wellness and self-help enthusiasts
  • Individuals seeking community and connection

70
Culture Books: The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese

The Covenant of Water

Abraham Verghese
4.4 (18 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Covenant of Water about?

The Covenant of Water (2023) follows a family in southern India across three generations as they grapple with a chilling affliction – the death by drowning of at least one member of every generation. Spanning almost the entire twentieth century, this masterful literary novel is a poignant tale of love and loss, chronicling the evolution of a family as well as India's turbulent passage into modernity.

Who should read The Covenant of Water?

  • Fans of literary fiction interested in emotional resonance and the human experience
  • People intrigued by the traditions and everyday lives of families in southern India
  • Those fascinated by India's culture and history, especially the changes in Indian society throughout the 1900s

71
Culture Books: Either/Or by Soren Kierkegaard

Either/Or

Soren Kierkegaard
A Fragment of Life
4.4 (77 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

72
Culture Books: Filterworld by Kyle Chayka

Filterworld

Kyle Chayka
How Algorithms Flattened Culture
4.2 (213 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Filterworld about?

Filterworld (2024) dives into the digital age's landscape, where algorithms are the unseen puppeteers of culture, taste, and social interaction. Peel back the digital curtain to uncover how your preferences are being shaped in echo chambers of sameness and how to be authentic in a world curated by code.

Who should read Filterworld?

  • Digital nomads and social media enthusiasts
  • Cultural critics investigating the intersection of technology and culture
  • Reclaimers of individuality

73
Culture Books: In Praise of Folly by Erasmus

In Praise of Folly

Erasmus
4.3 (26 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's In Praise of Folly about?

In Praise of Folly (1511) is a critical examination of societal norms and institutions with a satirical lens, unveiling an unconventional wisdom that praises folly, or foolishness, as a driving force behind much human action and happiness.

Who should read In Praise of Folly?

  • Fans of Renaissance literature
  • Students of philosophy
  • Individuals questioning societal norms

74
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

75
Culture Books: The Theory of Moral Sentiments by Adam Smith

The Theory of Moral Sentiments

Adam Smith
3.9 (35 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Theory of Moral Sentiments about?

First released in 1759, The Theory of Moral Sentiments examines empathy as the primary driving force behind moral judgment, influencing everything from personal relationships to societal norms.

Who should read The Theory of Moral Sentiments?

  • Philosophy enthusiasts
  • Social science students
  • Readers interested in human behavior

76
Culture Books: Notes from Underground by Fyodor Dostoevsky

Notes from Underground

Fyodor Dostoevsky
3.6 (30 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

77
Culture Books: Attack from Within by Barbara McQuade

Attack from Within

Barbara McQuade
How Disinformation Is Sabotaging America
2.9 (31 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Attack from Within about?

Attack from Within (2024) delves into the critical examination of how disinformation has been weaponized to challenge the fabric of democracy, distort public discourse, and erode fundamental trust in public institutions. This exploration serves as a call to action, urging you to recognize, confront, and disarm the insidious threats posed by disinformation, thereby fortifying the resilience of democratic values.

Who should read Attack from Within?

  • Students or practitioners of law interested in national security and disinformation
  • History and political science students
  • Advocates for democracy and free speech

78
Culture Books: The Other Significant Others by Rhaina Cohen

The Other Significant Others

Rhaina Cohen
Reimagining Life with Friendship at the Center
3.8 (116 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Other Significant Others about?

The Other Significant Others (2024) challenges conventional relationship wisdom by inviting us to imagine a life centered around friendship rather than romance. Through compelling stories of platonic partners who have built lives together, this thought-provoking work invites us to re-examine our assumptions about love, commitment, and family.

Who should read The Other Significant Others?

  • Readers seeking alternative perspectives on relationships and family structures
  • Friends who want to build a life together
  • Single, widowed, or divorced people searching for meaning, love, and connection

79
Culture Books: Simulacra and Simulation by Jean Baudrillard

Simulacra and Simulation

Jean Baudrillard
4.3 (164 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Simulacra and Simulation about?

Simulacra and Simulation (1981) explores the concepts of hyperreality and the blurring of boundaries between reality and representation in contemporary culture. Through a series of essays, it argues that in a world saturated with media and technology, reality itself has been replaced by simulations and copies without originals.

Who should read Simulacra and Simulation?

  • Artists, filmmakers, and writers inspired by the concepts of simulacra and hyperreality in their creative work
  • Cyberpunk and science fiction fans interested in the philosophical and cultural implications of simulated realities
  • Anyone curious about the nature of reality, the influence of media, and the philosophical underpinnings of our contemporary world

80
Culture Books: Man Enough by Justin Baldoni

Man Enough

Justin Baldoni
Undefining My Masculinity
3.1 (25 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Man Enough about?

Man Enough: Undefining My Masculinity (2021) is a thought-provoking exploration of the societal expectations and pressures surrounding masculinity. Through candid anecdotes and introspective reflections, the book challenges traditional notions of manhood, inviting readers to embrace vulnerability, sensitivity, and empathy as essential human qualities. It calls for men to break free from limiting gender roles and redefine masculinity on their own terms.

Who should read Man Enough?

  • Those who identify as men who feel confined by traditional gender roles and yearn for a more authentic way of living
  • People who want to cultivate deeper, more meaningful relationships
  • Anyone who wants to better understand and support the men in their lives

81
Culture Books: Third Millennium Thinking by Saul Perlmutter, Robert MacCoun & John Campbell

Third Millennium Thinking

Saul Perlmutter, Robert MacCoun & John Campbell
Creating Sense in a World of Nonsense
3.5 (53 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Third Millennium Thinking about?

Third Millennium Thinking (2024) offers a roadmap for developing the critical thinking skills needed to thrive in the new digital age. Grounded in the latest scientific research, it offers practical strategies for fostering resilience, emotional regulation, and mental strength in children of all ages.

Who should read Third Millennium Thinking?

  • Lifelong learners and curious minds who want to enhance their critical thinking abilities 
  • Entrepreneurs and innovators who need to make informed, strategic decisions
  • Anyone looking to develop essential skills for navigating the information landscape and fostering informed decision-making

82
Culture Books: The Zone of Interest  by Martin Amis

The Zone of Interest

Martin Amis
A Novel
4.1 (78 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Zone of Interest about?

The Zone of Interest (2014) explores the lives of three people under the harsh conditions of a Nazi concentration camp. This brutal narrative, which recently inspired a film adaptation, challenges you to confront the depths of human evil as well as the sparks of resilience in unimaginable circumstances. In it, you’ll encounter a chilling exploration of love, betrayal, and survival set against one of the darkest eras of human history.

Who should read The Zone of Interest ?

  • Fans of historical fiction and WWII narratives
  • Anyone interested in moral and ethical dilemmas
  • Enthusiasts of psychologically complex character studies

83
Culture Books: Utilitarianism by John Stuart Mill

Utilitarianism

John Stuart Mill
4.7 (101 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Utilitarianism about?

Utilitarianism (1861) introduces a moral theory proposing that the most ethical action is the one that maximizes overall happiness and well-being for all affected parties. The work explores the implications of this principle and defends it against potential objections, all while considering its practical applications in various aspects of life. 

Who should read Utilitarianism?

  • Technology, media, and business professionals who face complex ethical decisions in their work
  • Philosophy lovers interested in exploring influential theories
  • Lifelong learners who enjoy engaging with thought-provoking ideas.

84
Culture Books: The Stranger by Albert Camus

The Stranger

Albert Camus
4.5 (111 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

85
Culture Books: Knife by Salman Rushdie

Knife

Salman Rushdie
Meditations After an Attempted Murder
4.4 (30 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Knife about?

Knife (2024) offers an intimate account of Salman Rushdie's harrowing experience of surviving an assassination attempt. It provides a unique insight into the physical, personal, and psychological impact of trauma. It also delves into themes of identity, ideology, and the power of storytelling, making it a profound and moving examination of the human spirit's capacity for resilience and renewal.

Who should read Knife?

  • Anyone interested in the intersection of literature, politics, and personal narrative
  • People looking for stories of coping with trauma
  • Fans of revealing memoirs

86
Culture Books: Bad Therapy by Abigail Shrier

Bad Therapy

Abigail Shrier
Why the Kids Aren't Growing Up
4.3 (219 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

87
Culture Books: Atlas of AI by Kate Crawford

Atlas of AI

Kate Crawford
Power, Politics, and the Planetary Costs of Artificial Intelligence
3.4 (100 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

88
Culture Books: Understanding Media by Marshall McLuhan

Understanding Media

Marshall McLuhan
The Extensions of Man
4.2 (44 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Understanding Media about?

Understanding Media (1964) is a prescient analysis of the profound impact media would have on society, envisioned decades before the digital age actually unfolded. Introducing groundbreaking concepts like the “global village” and “the medium is the message,” it offers a fascinating lens through which to view our interconnected modern existence. 

Who should read Understanding Media?

  • Students of media theory, communications, or related fields 
  • Technology professionals interested in the history of digital communication
  • Cultural theorists curious about how media shapes social norms and structures

89
Culture Books: The Culture Map by Erin Meyer

The Culture Map

Erin Meyer
Breaking Through the Invisible Boundaries of Global Business
4.5 (19 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

90
Culture Books: Tess of the D'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy

Tess of the D'Urbervilles

Thomas Hardy
2.8 (4 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Tess of the D'Urbervilles about?

Tess of the D'Urbervilles (1891) unfolds the heart-wrenching journey of Tess Durbeyfield, a young woman ensnared by the rigid moral and social frameworks of Victorian England. It delves into her tumultuous life marked by manipulation, betrayal, and resilience against an unforgiving society's judgments. Through Tess's story, the novel explores the themes of purity, social hypocrisy, and the struggle between traditional values and societal change, highlighting the destructive impact of these forces on individual lives.

Who should read Tess of the D'Urbervilles?

  • Fans of classic literature
  • Readers interested in social issues
  • Students of Victorian England

91
Culture Books: Dialectic of Enlightenment by Max Horkheimer & Theodor W. Adorno

Dialectic of Enlightenment

Max Horkheimer & Theodor W. Adorno
4.4 (82 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Dialectic of Enlightenment about?

Dialectic of Enlightenment (1944) is a critical analysis of the Enlightenment and its role in shaping modern society. It argues that the very rationality and progress championed by the Enlightenment have led to new forms of domination, myth-making, and the instrumentalization of human beings and nature. 

Who should read Dialectic of Enlightenment?

  • Social activists and critical thinkers who seek to understand the underlying structures of domination and oppression in society
  • Philosophy lovers curious about the major works shaping contemporary thought
  • Anyone seeking to cultivate a more critical and reflective approach to their own beliefs and assumptions about the world.

92
Culture Books: Bits and Pieces by Whoopi Goldberg

Bits and Pieces

Whoopi Goldberg
My Mother, My Brother, and Me
4.3 (8 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Bits and Pieces about?

Bits and Pieces (2024) takes you through the candid moments that shaped Whoopi Goldberg's life, from childhood adventures in New York to navigating the highs and lows of stardom. Experience her heartfelt reflections on family, friendship, and resilience. Dive into a deeply personal journey of love, loss, and the strength found in the connections that bind us.

Who should read Bits and Pieces?

  • Fans of Whoopi Goldberg's diverse career and humor
  • Anyone interested in personal stories of resilience and family bonds
  • Enthusiasts of behind-the-scenes Hollywood and celebrity life

93
Culture Books: The Third Perspective by Africa Brooke

The Third Perspective

Africa Brooke
Brave Expression in the Age of Intolerance
4.2 (73 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Third Perspective about?

The Third Perspective (2024) offers an insightful journey into the challenges of self-expression in a world shaped by societal expectations and personal fears. Here, you'll uncover how to navigate the complexities of speaking your mind in a landscape often dominated by social media scrutiny and cultural conformity. This exploration equips you to cultivate a maverick mindset that transforms everyday courage into authentic life experiences, enhancing both personal integrity and communal dialogue.

Who should read The Third Perspective?

  • Personal development enthusiasts
  • Social media influencers navigating the complexities of public expression
  • Mental health professionals interested in the effects of self-censorship

94
Culture Books: The Open Society and Its Enemies by Karl R. Popper

The Open Society and Its Enemies

Karl R. Popper
4.1 (78 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Open Society and Its Enemies about?

The Open Society and Its Enemies (1945) challenges you to scrutinize the foundations of totalitarian ideologies and their impact on democracy. This work provokes deep reflection on the principles of open societies, contrasting the closed dogmas that threaten human freedom. Dive into a critical analysis of historicism and the philosophical underpinnings of social order, designed to equip you with a nuanced understanding of political dynamics.

Who should read The Open Society and Its Enemies?

  • Political philosophy enthusiasts interested in democracy and totalitarianism
  • Social scientists exploring the dynamics of historical change
  • Critical thinkers and advocates of liberal democracy

95
Culture Books: Free and Equal by Daniel Chandler

Free and Equal

Daniel Chandler
A Manifesto for a Just Society
3.7 (104 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Free and Equal about?

Free and Equal (2024) offers a progressive roadmap for building a fair society by reviving the compassionate ideas of philosopher John Rawls. It makes a compelling case for a society reimagined to safeguard free expression, eliminate the influence of money in politics, and build an economy where everyone can thrive.

Who should read Free and Equal?

  • Progressives seeking a fresh perspective on addressing societal issues
  • Political philosophers interested in the contemporary relevance of John Rawls’s ideas
  • Policymakers searching for a framework to guide decision-making in the face of current crises

96
Culture Books: Proximity by Robert C. Wolcott & Kaihan Krippendorff

Proximity

Robert C. Wolcott & Kaihan Krippendorff
Just-In-Time Breakthroughs to Transform Business and Life
4.0 (68 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Proximity about?

Proximity (2024) explores how digital technologies are revolutionizing production and service delivery, enabling on-demand fulfillment with minimal environmental impact. It examines the implications of this trend across industries and how it will transform business strategies, supply chains, and sustainability efforts.

Who should read Proximity?

  • Business leaders and entrepreneurs looking to innovate their business models
  • Tech-savvy consumers excited about personalization and on-demand services
  • Anyone frustrated by the waste and inefficiency of the current mass-production paradigm

97
Culture Books: What It Takes to Heal by Prentis Hemphill

What It Takes to Heal

Prentis Hemphill
How Transforming Ourselves Can Change the World
4.0 (70 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

98
Culture Books: The Truth About Immigration by Zeke Hernandez

The Truth About Immigration

Zeke Hernandez
Why Successful Societies Welcome Newcomers
3.5 (6 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

99
Culture Books: The Chaos Machine by Max Fisher

The Chaos Machine

Max Fisher
The Inside Story of How Social Media Rewired Our Minds and Our World
4.1 (7 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Chaos Machine about?

The Chaos Machine (2022) explores the dark side of social media. The design of apps like Facebook and Twitter, combined with the nature of human psychology, often make social media bring out the worst in us.

Who should read The Chaos Machine?

  • Social media addicts
  • People concerned about the negative effects of social media
  • Anyone interested in psychology

100
Culture Books: Pixel Flesh by Ellen Atlanta

Pixel Flesh

Ellen Atlanta
How Toxic Beauty Culture Harms Women
4.0 (4 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Pixel Flesh about?

Pixel Flesh (2024) examines the profound impact of modern beauty culture in the digital age, exploring how technological advancements have reshaped our relationship with appearance. It delves into the complexities of crafting online personas and the pressures of presenting idealized versions of ourselves, questioning whether this new paradigm truly empowers women or further entraps them in unrealistic standards.

Who should read Pixel Flesh?

  • Young women navigating the pressures of online self-presentation and beauty standards
  • Media and cultural studies scholars examining the impact of digital technology on self-image
  • Beauty industry professionals seeking to understand changing consumer attitudes and behaviors

Related Topics

Culture Books
 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
  • Click by Rom and Ori Brafman
  • 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
  • In Praise of Slowness by Carl Honoré
  • The Gift of Failure by Jessica Lahey

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
  • Rom and Ori Brafman
  • David Byrne
  • Mary Pilon