Thomas Sowell: The Biography by Jason L. Riley

A Life of Ideas

Thomas Sowell is one of the most influential public intellectuals of our time. A prolific author and economist, Sowell has written over 30 books and hundreds of articles on a wide range of topics, including economics, history, race, and culture. His work has been praised by scholars across the political spectrum, and he has been awarded numerous prestigious awards, including the National Medal of Science and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

In this magisterial biography, Jason L. Riley tells the story of Sowell's life and work. Riley draws on extensive interviews with Sowell, as well as his personal papers and correspondence, to provide a rich and nuanced portrait of a complex and fascinating man.

From Harlem to Harvard

Sowell was born in Harlem in 1930. His parents were poor, and he grew up in a tough neighborhood. But Sowell was a gifted student, and he eventually won a scholarship to Harvard University. At Harvard, Sowell studied economics and graduated magna cum laude.

After graduating from Harvard, Sowell worked as a professor at several universities, including Cornell University, the University of Chicago, and Stanford University. He also served as a senior fellow at the Hoover Institution, a conservative think tank.

Sowell's Economic Thought

Sowell is best known for his work in economics. He is a leading proponent of free market economics, and he has argued that government intervention in the economy often does more harm than good. Sowell has also written extensively about the economics of race and discrimination. He has argued that discrimination is a real problem, but that it is often exaggerated by liberals. Sowell has also argued that affirmative action policies are not effective in reducing discrimination.

Sowell's Social and Cultural Thought

In addition to his work in economics, Sowell has also written extensively about social and cultural issues. He has argued that the decline of the American family is a major social problem, and he has called for a return to traditional values. Sowell has also written about the importance of education and the role of culture in shaping individual success.

Sowell's Legacy

Thomas Sowell is a towering figure in American intellectual life. His work has had a profound impact on our understanding of economics, race, and culture. Sowell is a brilliant thinker and a gifted writer, and his work is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the world we live in.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are interested in economics, race, or culture, then you should read this book. Thomas Sowell is one of the most important public intellectuals of our time, and his work is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the world we live in.

This biography is a fascinating account of Sowell's life and work. Riley draws on extensive interviews with Sowell, as well as his personal papers and correspondence, to provide a rich and nuanced portrait of a complex and fascinating man.

This book is a must-read for anyone who is interested in Sowell's work or in the history of American intellectual thought.