56 pages 1 hour read

Michael J. Sandel

What Money Can’t Buy: The Moral Limits of Markets

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2012

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

What Money Can’t Buy by Michael J. Sandel critiques the pervasive influence of market values on societal institutions and values, questioning the morality of commodifying nonmarket spheres like health, education, and public services. Through various examples, Sandel urges a societal reevaluation of what should and shouldn't be for sale, emphasizing the need for public discourse on the limits of markets.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Michael J. Sandel's What Money Can’t Buy offers a compelling critique of market-driven societies, sparking thoughtful debate on the moral limits of markets. Praised for its accessible prose and philosophical depth, some readers find it repetitive and overly idealistic. Nonetheless, it succeeds in provoking critical reflection on the commodification of life’s essentials.

Who should read this

Who Should Read What Money Can’t Buy?

Readers who enjoyed Michael Sandel's Justice or Daniel Kahneman's Thinking, Fast and Slow will appreciate What Money Can't Buy. It appeals to those interested in ethics, philosophy, and the moral limits of markets, sparking critical thoughts on society’s commodification. Ideal for academics, policymakers, and thoughtful citizens.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Themes

Society: Community

Society: Economics

Society: Politics & Government

Topics

Business / Economics

Sociology

Psychology

Genre

Psychology

Philosophy