In 'Small Is Beautiful,' E. F. Schumacher challenges the conventional wisdom of large-scale industrialization, advocating instead for sustainable and human-centered economics. He explores the impacts of technology on society and argues for a more compassionate approach to economic development. Schumacher emphasizes the importance of small-scale enterprises and localized solutions, suggesting that true progress lies in self-sufficiency and ecological balance. His visionary ideas invite readers to rethink their values and priorities in a world driven by materialism and consumerism. This thought-provoking work inspires a deep reflection on what it means to live well and sustainably.
By E. F. Schumacher
Published: 2010
""Small is beautiful, but we must remember that it is the human scale that nurtures creativity, fosters community, and cultivates a sustainable future.""
Small Is Beautiful is Oxford-trained economist E. F. Schumacher’s classic call for the end of excessive consumption. Schumacher inspired such movements as “Buy Locally” and “Fair Trade,” while voicing strong opposition to “casino capitalism” and wasteful corporate behemoths. Named one of the Times Literary Supplement’s 100 Most Influential Books Since World War II, Small Is Beautiful presents eminently logical arguments for building our economies around the needs of communities, not corporations.
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
E. F. Schumacher (1911-1977) was a renowned British economist and a prominent advocate for sustainable development. Best known for his influential work 'Small Is Beautiful: A Study of Economics as if People Mattered' (1973), Schumacher challenged the conventional notions of economic growth and the overemphasis on large-scale industrialization. His writing is characterized by a clear, accessible prose that merges economic theory with ethical considerations and humanistic values. He also authored 'Good Work' and several essays that delve into the relationship between economics, the environment, and quality of life. Schumacher's holistic approach to economics has inspired a range of movements advocating for sustainable and equitable economic practices.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Seth Godin is a prolific author and entrepreneur, renowned for his influential contributions to marketing and business thought leadership. He has written over 20 bestselling books, including "Purple Cow," "Linchpin," and "The Dip," which have revolutionized modern marketing strategies and inspired countless professionals. Godin's work emphasizes the importance of creativity, innovation, and the power of ideas in building successful enterprises. He is also the founder of altMBA, an online leadership and management workshop, and he consistently shares his insights through his popular daily blog. Godin's impact on the marketing world has earned him a spot in the Direct Marketing Hall of Fame.
View CollectionAdam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
View CollectionBernie Sanders is an American politician and U.S. Senator from Vermont, known for his progressive policies and his advocacy for economic equality. Sanders ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2016 and 2020, inspiring a movement with his calls for Medicare for All, free college tuition, and a $15 minimum wage. He identifies as a democratic socialist and has been a long-standing advocate for labor rights, environmental justice, and social welfare programs. Sanders’ candidacy energized a new generation of activists and has had a lasting influence on the direction of the Democratic Party. His focus on income inequality and social justice continues to shape political discourse in the U.S.
View CollectionEmma Watson is a British actress and activist best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series, which brought J.K. Rowling's beloved books to life. Beyond her acting career, Watson has made significant contributions to literature by promoting gender equality and women's rights through her work with the United Nations, including the HeForShe campaign. She has also curated and shared book recommendations that highlight feminist literature and diverse voices. Watson graduated from Brown University with a degree in English literature, further emphasizing her dedication to the literary world. Her advocacy and influence have made her a prominent figure in both the entertainment and literary communities.
View CollectionMarc Andreessen is an American entrepreneur, software engineer, and venture capitalist, best known for co-creating the Mosaic web browser, the first widely-used web browser, and co-founding Netscape. Andreessen is also the co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, one of Silicon Valley’s most prominent venture capital firms, where he invests in groundbreaking technology companies like Facebook, Airbnb, and Coinbase. He is a thought leader on the impact of technology and innovation, often sharing his views on the future of the internet and startups. His contributions to the development of the web and the tech ecosystem have made him one of the most influential figures in technology.
View CollectionJon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
View CollectionBrett Adcock is an entrepreneur and co-founder of Archer Aviation, an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) company focused on revolutionizing urban air mobility. Prior to founding Archer, Adcock co-founded Vettery, a talent marketplace that connects companies with job seekers using data-driven matching technology, which was later acquired by the Adecco Group. At Archer, Adcock is working to build the future of transportation with electric aircraft designed for short-distance flights in urban areas. His vision for the future of air travel has made him a key player in the growing eVTOL and aviation technology industries.
View CollectionKara Swisher is an American journalist, podcaster, and one of the most influential voices in tech reporting. She co-founded Recode and co-hosts the Pivot podcast, where she covers the intersection of technology, business, and politics. Swisher is known for her sharp insights and fearless interviews with some of the biggest names in Silicon Valley. She has been a longtime commentator on tech's impact on society and is often called upon for her critical analysis of industry giants like Facebook, Google, and Amazon. Swisher continues to be a leading figure in tech journalism, influencing both public discourse and policy conversations.
View CollectionNick Szabo is a computer scientist, cryptographer, and legal scholar, best known for his pioneering work on digital contracts and cryptocurrency. Szabo is credited with developing the concept of “smart contracts,” which are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into code. His early work in digital currency, including his project Bit Gold, laid the groundwork for the development of Bitcoin and blockchain technology. Szabo is a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency community and continues to advocate for the use of decentralized systems to enhance privacy, security, and trust online. His contributions to cryptography and digital currencies have made him a foundational figure in the world of blockchain.
View CollectionAlex Honnold is an American professional rock climber, best known for his free solo ascent of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a feat that was documented in the Oscar-winning film Free Solo. Honnold is renowned for his mental toughness, technical skill, and ability to climb without ropes or safety equipment. His accomplishments have made him a legend in the climbing world, and he continues to push the boundaries of the sport. Outside of climbing, Honnold is a philanthropist, founding the Honnold Foundation, which supports environmental sustainability projects, particularly in solar energy.
View CollectionBrad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.
View CollectionMark Cuban is an American entrepreneur, investor, and television personality, best known as the owner of the NBA's Dallas Mavericks and a "shark" on the TV show "Shark Tank." While he is primarily recognized for his business acumen, Cuban is also an author, having written the book "How to Win at the Sport of Business," which provides insights into his journey and strategies for success. His contributions to literature focus on imparting practical business advice and sharing his experiences as a self-made billionaire. Cuban's writing is praised for its straightforward, no-nonsense approach, making complex business concepts accessible to a broad audience. Through his book and numerous articles, he continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.
View CollectionBenedict Evans is a renowned technology analyst and commentator, acclaimed for his insightful analyses on technology trends and their societal impacts. With a background in venture capital and strategic consulting, Evans has become a prominent voice in the tech community through his thought-provoking essays and presentations. His work often explores the intersection of mobile technology, media, and internet platforms, offering a nuanced understanding of complex tech ecosystems. Evans is widely respected for his ability to distill intricate technological developments into accessible and compelling narratives. His contributions have significantly influenced industry leaders and informed public discourse on the future of technology.
View CollectionBill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View CollectionCharles Koch is an American businessman and philanthropist, best known as the Chairman and CEO of Koch Industries, one of the largest privately held companies in the world. Beyond his business acumen, Koch has made significant contributions to literature, particularly in the field of economics and management. His book "The Science of Success" outlines his philosophy of Market-Based Management, a framework for business success that has influenced many entrepreneurs. Additionally, his co-authored work "Good Profit" delves into creating value for society through principled entrepreneurship. Koch's writings emphasize the importance of innovation, free markets, and a principled approach to business.
View Collection“"Small is beautiful, but we must remember that it is the human scale that nurtures creativity, fosters community, and cultivates a sustainable future."”
Small Is Beautiful
By E. F. Schumacher
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.