The Ultra Rich: How Much Is Too Much?

by Vance Packard

The Ultra Rich examines the lives of thirty American multi-millionaires and their extravagances. Eighteen of them are self-made entrepreneurs; many made a killing in merchandising, real estate or financial services. The sample includes potato baron Jack Simplot of Boise, Idaho; Penthouse publisher Bob Guccione; investment king Edward Bass; Dallas heiress Jane Hunt; and New York realtor Sam LeFrakIt. Vance Packard deplores the negative effect on the nation's economy of such massive individual fortunes and suggests possible solutions.

Genres: Nonfiction

324 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1989

About the author

Vance Oakley Packard was an American journalist and social critic. He was the author of several books, including The Hidden Persuaders and The Naked Society. He was a critic of consumerism.

Reviews

[Vikki · Rating 3 out of 5]

Packard writes about people with mega bucks. We are talking $300 million +. A good book.

[Barbara Ab · Rating 3 out of 5]

Basically American as for the data he analyzes, out of date for the most of it, but still interesting in some parts

[Jeff Keehr · Rating 3 out of 5]

I never found a book by Packard that I didn't like. He was a great sociologist and wrote entertaining and insightful books. I wish someone would have taken his place.

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read Packard's book over 20 years ago, and loved it. Wish I could find the same topic modernized. He interviewed thirty people, each worth more than $300 million, and discussed how they earned their fortunes and their lifestyles. It was fascinating.