1. Faraday, Maxwell, and the Electromagnetic Field: How Two Men Revolutionized Physics by Nancy Forbes and Basil Mahon
This book is a so-called biography of the electromagnetic field in the form of two biographies of Michael Faraday and Clerk Maxwell. The authors describe some more unusual scientific concepts and emphasize the explanation of electromagnetism, which formed the basis of physics. Suppose you are interested in research in various fields and understand how difficult it is to start it in the light of prejudice and rejection by others. In that case, this is your chance to believe in yourself and continue working because it is often under such conditions that progress and discovery of new things occur.
2. Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr. by Ron Chernow
Ron Chernow has created a biography of John D. Rockefeller with clarity, answering the questions of what happened, when, and why in the billionaire's life. The book describes both childhood and family problems, as well as business strategies, charitable activities, and the impact of the silent Rockefeller on the global economy. In addition, the author pays attention to the journalistic practice of Edie Tarbell, who covered all the activities of the company of oil magnate John D. Rockefeller's company. So, if you are interested in learning more about the biography of the richest person in American history, feel free to start reading Titan by Ron Chernow.
3. The Wealth and Poverty of Nations: Why Some Are So Rich and Some So Poor by David S. Landes
The Wealth and Poverty of Nations describes the geographical, cultural, and historical factors that have led to and continue to lead to economic differences between countries around the world. David S. Landes leads readers to the idea that the key to a country's relative wealth lies in openness and good policies. To understand the state of countries today, you can familiarize yourself with history and understand the factors that led to this state.
4. Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In by Roger Fisher and William Ury
Getting to Yes describes the importance of negotiations in terms of business and communications in the modern world. Roger Fisher and William Ury advise focusing on interests rather than positions when negotiating, as this makes it easier to resolve conflicts in the future. To learn more about the book, we recommend that you read our summary of Getting to Yes.
5. Ice Age: How a Change of Climate Made Us Human by John and Mary Gribbin
We’ve all heard about the Ice Age from history, but have you ever wondered how it affected the evolution of humanity? John and Mary Gribbin cover this issue in their book, focusing on resilience and human adaptation to environmental changes. There is a theory about the Ice Age that took more than 140 years to prove, and if you are interested in more details, then the Ice Age book is for you. Start reading it and you'll understand why Charlie Munger singled it out among other literature.
6. Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by Jared Diamond
This book explores the process of civilization in the world through environmental and geographical factors such as agriculture, domestication of animals, and the spread of disease. Jared Diamond points out and proves why Western European culture has become dominant among others in history. To understand the development of food systems, military technologies, and much more, you can also read our summary of Guns, Germs, and Steel.
7. Living within Limits: Ecology, Economics, and Population Taboos by Garrett Hardin
Overpopulation is the central theme of the book, and more specifically, how it affects economic and environmental issues. Throughout the book, Garrett Hardin conveys the idea that the Earth's resources are limited, but the demand on the bottom by people is only increasing. Living within Limits forces people to face the problem right now and start changing things before it's too late.
8. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini
Influence helps you understand why people say yes from a psychological perspective. Robert B. Cialdini describes how people are influenced by such factors as social proof, authority, and subtle signals. You can find more information before reading the full book in our Influence summary. Charlie Munger was an entrepreneur, and communication with people was at the core of his work, so if the tips from the book helped him in business, they would be useful to you, too.
9. How the Scots Invented the Modern World by Arthur Herman
Arthur Herman describes in the book the contribution of Scottish thinkers and innovators to the modern world. The book is a great example of how historical books can be interesting and optimistic and can keep you awake at night. How the Scots Invented the Modern World proves, based on examples, how such a small country played a major role in the formation of the modern world in various spheres of life.
10. In The Plex: Exploration of Google's Influence on The Information Age by Steven Levy
In the Plex is considered to be one of the most intriguing books written about Google. Steven Levy described the biography and formation of the search engine and the creation of data centers. He also pondered the question of whether Google is more useful for ordinary people or the government. Charlie Munger did not ignore this book because of its detail and the information it contains. In today's world, the Internet is indispensable, and to get the most out of it, you need to understand how it works.
The list of books above covers a variety of topics. Charlie Munger was a well-rounded person, so you can choose literature to your liking, whether it's history, psychology, science, biography, or philosophical topics. Trust the businessman's recommendations and draw your conclusions after reading the books.
