About the Author
David Graeber
ISBN 9780143422716
Rs. 1,040
Penguin Books
Debt
Who it's for: Readers interested in economics, history, and social justice
In Debt: The First 5,000 Years, anthropologist and activist David Graeber offers a comprehensive examination of debt's historical and societal role. Challenging conventional economic views, Graeber explores how debt has shaped human civilizations, transcending mere financial transactions to become deeply intertwined with social, moral, and political structures from ancient times to the modern era.The book analyzes the enduring relationship between creditors and debtors, revealing debt's function as a tool for power and control, often resulting in significant social inequality. Graeber also delves into the ethical dimensions of debt systems, questioning their morality when they perpetuate cycles of poverty and dependence for individuals and nations.Why You Should Read? Provides a historical overview of debt, from ancient origins to contemporary implications. Offers a critical analysis of economic theories, redefining the traditional understanding of debt. Explores the social, moral, and political dimensions of debt, appealing to readers interested in economics, history, and social justice.
Highlights
- Examines debt's role across 5,000 years of human civilization
- Challenges conventional economic theories about debt
- Analyzes creditor-debtor relationships and power dynamics
- Explores ethical dimensions and social inequality
- Interdisciplinary appeal: economics, history, social justice
Themes
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All by David Graeber →Questions about this book
What is the book's main argument?
The book challenges conventional economic views by showing that debt is not just a financial transaction but is deeply intertwined with social, moral, and political structures throughout history.
Who is the author?
David Graeber, an anthropologist and activist, wrote the book.
What time period does the book cover?
It covers debt from ancient times to the modern era, spanning 5,000 years.
Does the book discuss the morality of debt?
Yes, it explores the ethical dimensions of debt systems, questioning their morality when they perpetuate cycles of poverty and dependence.
What is the book's relevance to social inequality?
The book reveals how debt functions as a tool for power and control, often resulting in significant social inequality.




