41 pages • 1 hour read
Winners Take All: The Elite Charade of Changing the World
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Book Brief
304
Book • Nonfiction
2010s
2018
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Winners Take All by Anand Giridharadas explores how wealthy elites dominate efforts to address social issues, often preserving their own interests and perpetuating inequality. Through stories of individuals like Hilary Cohen and analysis of elite-driven solutions, Giridharadas criticizes the "win-win" mindset and the paradoxical role of elites in philanthropy and government. Topics include discrimination and worker mistreatment.
Informative
Challenging
Contemplative
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
19,603 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Anand Giridharadas' Winners Take All offers a piercing critique of elite philanthropy, challenging the idea that the wealthy can solve societal problems while perpetuating inequity. Praised for its insightful analysis and engaging prose, it's seen as provocative. However, some critics argue it lacks depth and actionable solutions. Overall, it sparks important conversations.
Who Should Read Winners Take All?
A reader who would enjoy Winners Take All by Anand Giridharadas is likely interested in social justice, economic inequality, and critiques of philanthropy. Similar readers may appreciate Dark Money by Jane Mayer and The Divide by Matt Taibbi for their deep dives into the power dynamics shaping society.
19,603 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Bill and Hillary Clinton
Bill and Hillary Clinton
Political figures known for their philanthropy and socioeconomic projects through the Clinton Global Initiative, which Anand Giridharadas critiques for favoring elite interests.
Amy Cuddy
Amy Cuddy
A social psychologist and Harvard Business School professor known for her public speaking and best-selling books aimed at general audiences, embraced by elites.
Hilary Cohen
Hilary Cohen
An idealistic Georgetown graduate who worked for McKinsey and the Obama Foundation, questioning the effectiveness of business-led approaches to fostering change.
Sean Hinton
Sean Hinton
A musicologist turned consultant and head of George Soros’s Economic Advancement Program, critical of market-based solutions to global problems.
Darren Walker
Darren Walker
A philanthropic leader who rose from a humble background to head the Ford Foundation, advocating for new ideas on wealth and inequality in philanthropy.
304
Book • Nonfiction
2010s
2018
Adult
18+ years
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