The Sovereign Individual

by James Dale Davidson, William Rees-Mogg

Published in 1997, The Sovereign Individual predicts the rise of the digital age and its impact on individual autonomy and state power. The authors argue that technological advancements, particularly the internet, will diminish the influence of governments and empower individuals to take control of their own lives. They foresee a future where traditional institutions are challenged, and personal sovereignty becomes paramount. This provocative work offers a foresightful analysis of the intersection between technology, economics, and personal freedom.

The Black Swan

by Nassim Nicholas Taleb

Series: Incerto (#2)

The Black Swan explores the profound impact of rare, unpredictable events—what Taleb calls “Black Swans”—that lie outside normal expectations but have massive consequences. The book challenges traditional forecasting and risk models, arguing that humans consistently underestimate uncertainty. Taleb illustrates how randomness and surprise shape history, from financial markets to scientific breakthroughs, and advocates for antifragility—systems that benefit from disorder. Combining philosophy, probability theory, and anecdotal insight, The Black Swan is a provocative critique of modern thinking and a call to embrace humility in the face of complexity. It’s a transformative read for anyone making decisions in uncertain environments.

Letters from a Self-Made Merchant to His Son

by George Horace Lorimer

First published in 1901, this epistolary book presents fictional letters from a successful Chicago pork packer to his college-aged son. Blending wit, business acumen, and life wisdom, the father offers advice on work ethic, integrity, personal character, and money management. Written in a candid and humorous tone, the book delivers old-fashioned common sense that remains surprisingly relevant. It's a manual not just for business, but for becoming a responsible and grounded adult. The blend of fatherly guidance and entrepreneurial insight has made it a classic on both parenting and leadership.

The Little Book of Common Sense Investing

by John C. Bogle

In 'The Little Book of Common Sense Investing', John C. Bogle, the founder of Vanguard Group, delivers a compelling argument for passive index investing as a tried-and-true strategy for long-term financial success. Bogle breaks down complex financial concepts into simple, accessible advice for both seasoned investors and beginners. He highlights the pitfalls of high-cost, actively managed funds and advocates for a low-cost, buy-and-hold approach to investing. With a focus on minimizing fees and maximizing long-term returns, Bogle's book serves as a practical guide for investors looking to navigate the often tumultuous world of finance with prudence and common sense.