What The Rich Don't Tell The Poor: Conversations with Guatemalan Oligarchs

by Roman Krznaric

How does oligachic power work in practice? In this fascinating and original study of Guatemala’s economic elite or ‘oligarchy’, Roman Krznaric explores the inner workings of the country’s wealthy business sector and how they have maintained power and privilege in the face of change. Based on extensive personal interviews, What The Rich Don’t Tell The Poor reveals the oligarchs speaking candidly in their own words on issues ranging from political violence and civil war to race and inequality. The result is a pathbreaking work of political and sociological analysis that offers unique insights into the global phenomenon of oligarchic power.

'An important book that fills a big void in progressive thinking about elites, privilege and power' - Professor Duncan Green, London School of Economics

Roman Krznaric is a public philosopher who has taught politics and Latin American Studies at the universities of Cambridge, Essex and City University, London. His bestselling books have been published in more than twenty languages. He is currently a Research Fellow of the Long Now Foundation and a member of the Club of Rome.

Genres: Nonfiction

302 pages, Paperback

Published February 16, 2022

About the author

Roman Krznaric is a social philosopher who writes about the power of ideas to create change. His latest book is the international bestseller The Good Ancestor: How to Think Long Term in a Short-Term World. His previous books, including Empathy, The Wonderbox, How to Find Fulfilling Work and Carpe Diem Regained, have been published in more than 25 languages. He is Senior Research Fellow at Oxford University’s Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing and founder of the world’s first Empathy Museum. His new book, History for Tomorrow: Inspiration from the Past for the Future of Humanity, is published in July 2024.

Reviews

[Andrea]

I really enjoyed this book. It’s incredibly valuable to step into the shoes of someone who’s actions, from the outside, appear evil, and try to figure out their point of view. It can be a lot to take in when he is narrating someone’s perspective, while simultaneously grappling with the flaws in the person’s logic. It makes it a difficult read in some places, but well worth the effort.

[Briana B]

3.25 rating