A farewell to alms : a brief economic history of the world

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What caused the Industrial Revolution? Gregory Clark offers a compelling explanation for this transformative event that reshaped human life after millennia of stagnation. He posits that the Industrial Revolution resulted from a form of natural selection during the pre-industrial era, where economically successful families also had greater reproductive success. These families passed down productive traits such as foresight, thrift, and a strong work ethic to their descendants. Clark's thesis challenges conventional explanations that focus on ideological, technological, or institutional changes, and it is likely to spark debate among historians for years to come. His work appeals to a broad audience by questioning the prevailing notion that institutions alone determine wealth in societies. While some may disagree with Clark, his thought-provoking approach encourages readers to reconsider established ideas. As an economic historian, he engages with economists without relying on overly complex models, making his insights accessible. This book is poised to become a foundational text on economic development, prompting further research and discussion. Clark's views on imperialism and the benefits of industrialization for labor are sure to provoke strong reactions. Overall, he provides a long-term perspective on the Industrial Revolution, offering significant contributions to the field without excessive detail.