Observation; --Every Man His Own University

by Russell H. Conwell

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1917 edition. Excerpt: ... perseverance. No body ever earnestly reaches out for a thing until he feels that he needs it, consequently, the sons and daughters of the rich are seldom the benefactors of humanity in the way so many poor men and women have been through the inventions which have lightened the drudgery of millions of homes, as well as increased marvelously the productions of the soil and of the factory. Had the talents of the rich been put to the test by hunger or cold or the many other incentives to vigorous thought and action which impel the poor, they also might have many inventions to their credit, for the longing of the normal soul furnishes the basis of all the worthy activities of life. The greatest drawback for rich men's sons and daughters is in having all their wants supplied from the bank-account of indulgent parents. They are taught neither industry, economy, nor self-control, which often makes them a social menace. They lack appreciation for so many of the things in life which help to brighten the path of the poor, solely because they have never needed them. A hungry boy who has stood on the outside of a bakery, clinging to a nickel and fighting a battle with himself whether to invest it in a bit of bread or to take it home to his mother, who has had neither brealdast nor dinner, fully under stands the value of a dollar. The superintendent of the Patent Office at Washington has confirmed the official report of the French Patent Oflice----that there has been no invention of especial value which has not been either found or improved upon by some poor man. The best life-preserver was invented by a sailor who had fallen overboard and had been nearly drowned. An obscure native of a duchy bordered on three sides by powerful nations invented...

Genres: Self Help, Nonfiction

34 pages, Paperback

First published July 8, 2009

About the author

Russell Herman Conwell was a Baptist minister, philanthropist, lawyer, and writer best remembered as the founder of Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and for his inspirational lecture, Acres of Diamonds.

Reviews

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Napoleon Hill recommended this book, and it was everything he said it was. It was a short read and dated, but made the primary point that all of us should take our education into our own hands and not depend solely on school or universities to teach us. I really enjoyed this book.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every person should read

Common knowledge is not always common practice. I purchased this book because Napoleon Hill recommended it as a part of his law of success book. It is one of the better reads I have read. Can't go wrong buying this book.

[Jaynul Nishat · Rating 1 out of 5]

হোগাচোদা বই... বিগারের বই... মুড টাই বাল অফ হয়ে গেলো :(

[Joe Simmons · Rating 3 out of 5]

Russell H. Conwell’s Observation: Every Man His Own University offers an intriguing perspective on self-education and the power of learning through experience. The central theme—that life itself is the greatest teacher and that wisdom comes from keen observation—remains relevant and inspiring. Conwell encourages readers to develop their minds by paying close attention to the world around them, rather than relying solely on formal education.

One of the book’s strongest points is its emphasis on personal responsibility in learning: “The best education is the one a man gives himself.” Conwell argues that anyone, regardless of background, can achieve great things by staying curious and constantly observing the world with intention.

However, while the message is powerful, the book at times feels repetitive, and its examples, given the era in which it was written, may not always resonate with modern readers. The writing style, though insightful, can be a bit dense, making it less engaging than some contemporary self-improvement books.

Overall, Observation is a worthwhile read for those interested in personal development and lifelong learning, but it may not be the most accessible or practical guide for everyone. A good book with valuable insights—just not as polished or engaging as other works in the genre.

[Victor Henrique · Rating 4 out of 5]

Russell H. Conwell's, ''Every Man His Own University"- is a motivational guide that emphasizes the importance of self-education and self-improvement. Throughout the book, Conwell provides readers with inspiration and encouragement, emphasizing self-reliance and empowerment.

One of the key strengths of the book is its practical focus. Conwell provides concrete, actionable advice that readers can immediately put into practice, and his examples and anecdotes help make his points clear and accessible.

In terms of writing style, Conwell is an effective and persuasive writer, with clear and straightforward prose. This makes the book an engaging and easy read, and helps to bring Conwell's message to life.

[john greenwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read

This was recommended reading after one of Napolean Hills books. It's a bit antiquated but a good read non the less.

[A'ishah Kamaludin · Rating 3 out of 5]

The language is not so easy to understand for me (luckily it’s a brief book - 46 pages) I get few revelations from reading it:-
1. Good food is important not just for my health but also my intellectual property, creativity and productivity.
2. Thoughtfulness is gained by the practice of gratitude over little things.
3. I can never feel adequate if I keep comparing myself to a stamp - system or standard.
4. It’s not how many books I read, but how deep the reading improve/affect my life.
5. University study is taught by specialists but this whole life is a bunch of many things

[Po Ag · Rating 4 out of 5]

Easy to read, only little time it takes...
Major things to learn from it :-
1) Observation: by mere observation u can learn many things from nature and animal world
2) Think for yourself : school and colleges shall not teach life skills, how to think in proper way so that we become more educated!..
3) Preserve your individuality : you need to preserve your individuality, your natural instincts will help you to get ahead in life!

[Arthur Cravan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short lil' piece, very nice. Kind of repetitive, but relevant examples & an overall great message. This might even be a five star, but I think its length knocks it down. Having said that, little reading and much thinking make a wise man.

[Sanntint · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every words is counted as an intellect !

[Wavycurls · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just brilliant ! Very much required to be read especially by students from schools and colleges .

[William E Baehr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

Excellent advice from the past that applies today. Observation is key to success. The book was very poorly transferred to Kindle which makes reading it tedious.

[Patrick Dailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful read it was to read this short, but full of such wisdom and insight for living.

[Kinyua]

Correlation