In 'The Mystery of Capital', Hernando De Soto explores the paradox of capitalism in developing countries, where wealth is often hidden away, stifling economic growth. He argues that the lack of proper property rights keeps millions from accessing capital, leaving their assets untapped and their potential unrealized. De Soto reveals how formalizing property ownership could unlock vast economic opportunities, transforming lives and communities. His thought-provoking analysis challenges readers to rethink what constitutes wealth and how it can be harnessed. Discover how understanding the mystery of capital could lead to revolutionary economic change.
By Hernando De Soto
Published: 2000
""Capital is not just assets; it is the invisible networks of rights, the legal frameworks, and the social contracts that ultimately give it value and power.""
In the West we've forgotten that creating this system is also what allowed people everywhere to leverage property into wealth.
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“"Capital is not just assets; it is the invisible networks of rights, the legal frameworks, and the social contracts that ultimately give it value and power."”
The Mystery of Capital
By Hernando De Soto
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Hernando De Soto was a Spanish explorer and conquistador known for his expeditions in the Americas during the early 16th century. He is best recognized for his exploration of the southeastern United States, including parts of present-day Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Arkansas. De Soto’s notable works include "The Narrative of the Expedition of Hernando de Soto", which chronicles his journey through the uncharted territories of North America in search of gold and glory. His writing is characterized by detailed observations of the indigenous peoples and landscapes he encountered, reflecting a blend of adventure, ethnographic detail, and the ethos of exploration prevalent during the Age of Discovery. De Soto's legacy is marked by both his significant contributions to the exploration of the New World and the complex impacts of his expeditions on Native American societies.
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