Book description
"In this masterly book, [Alfani] offers an insightful long-run perspective and fascinating lessons for the future. A must-read!"-Thomas Piketty, author of Capital in the Twenty-First CenturyA sweeping narrative that shows how the rich historically justified themselves by helping their societies in times of crisis, why they no longer do, and what that may mean for social stabilityThe rich have always fascinated, sometimes in problematic ways. Medieval thinkers feared that the super-rich would act 'as gods among men'; much more recently Thomas Piketty made wealth central to discussions of inequality. In this book, Guido Alfani offers a history of the rich and super-rich in the West, examining who they were, how they accumulated their wealth and what role they played in society. Covering the last thousand years, with frequent incursions into antiquity, and integrating recent research on economic inequality, Alfani finds-despite the different paths to wealth in different eras-fundamental continuities in the behaviour of the rich and public attitudes towards wealth across Western history. His account offers a novel perspective on current debates about wealth and income disparity.Alfani argues that the position of the rich and super-rich in Western society has always been intrinsically fragile; their very presence has inspired social unease. In the Middle Ages, an excessive accumulation of wealth was considered sinful; the rich were expected not to appear to be wealthy. Eventually, the rich were deemed useful when they used their wealth to help their communities in times of crisis. Yet in the twenty-first century, Alfani points out, the rich and the super-rich-their wealth largely preserved through the Great Recession and COVID-19-have been exceptionally reluctant to contribute to the common good in times of crisis, rejecting even such stopgap measures as temporary tax increases. History suggests that this is a troubling development-for the rich, and for everyone else.
Spunky Chick
No more fighting over the radio during family trips – we're all hooked on audiobooks now. This app has broadened my literary horizons, introducing me to new authors. I'm blown away by how this app has revolutionized my reading experience. The tone adjustment feature in ListenBook Pro is a novel addition that allows me to personalize my audiobook experience. ListenBook's audio filters allow me to customize the audio playback to suit my preferences perfectly.
Prof. Smirk
The ListenBook app is a must-have for anyone who loves to learn and be entertained through audiobooks. ListenBook is a game-changer! Finally, an app that lets me enjoy my favorite audio files with ease. The app's interface is so sleek and modern. It's a joy to use. ListenBook’s bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book.
Sugar Man
I love that I can enjoy audiobooks while cooking elaborate meals in the kitchen. The ability to adjust playback speed is a game-changer for faster or more immersive listening. ListenBook's interface is sleek and user-friendly, making navigation a breeze. ListenBook's commitment to excellence shines through in its powerful features and seamless performance.
Eye Devil
📱 Unlocking the world of literature with just a tap – this app is my digital library card! 📚📱 Adjustable playback speed is my secret weapon for covering more material in less time. A productivity boost! Auto-rewind feature is extremely helpful. Great functionality.
Are Ess Tee
Audiobooks have become my escape from reality – a journey into captivating worlds. I can't believe how easily this app has fit into my daily routine. The interface is sleek and intuitive, making my audiobook experience a joy.
Campfire Mama
Audiobooks on this app have made my morning rituals something to look forward to. The ability to download audiobooks directly is fantastic. ListenBook is very convenient.
Pink Hopper
With ListenBook, my audio content is organized, accessible, and ready to inspire me. This app has turned my gym sessions into immersive storytelling experiences – time flies by! Managing my audiobook collection is a pleasure thanks to this app's usability. Sharing audiobooks via AirDrop is incredibly convenient. Great feature!
CZR
🚗📖 On-the-go listening has never been smoother – this app's functionality keeps me engaged during long commutes. 🚗📚 Seamless audiobook integration – this app's functionality is truly remarkable. Audiobook immersion made simple – this app's ease of use is commendable. Love how I can adjust playback speed and audio volume. ListenBook caters to all my needs. I love the ability to share my progress with friends. It’s a fun feature.
NightWonka
I'm absolutely in love with this app! The interface is so intuitive and user-friendly. ListenBook's focus on quality and user experience has made it my go-to app for audiobooks and educational content. With ListenBook, I can enjoy my audiobooks with enhanced sound quality and personalized settings.
Sun Runner
Precise controls on ListenBook give me complete command over my audio playback. With this app, I've unlocked the secret to reading even on the busiest days. 🌟 Adding excitement to everyday tasks – this app is my partner in productivity! 📚🚀 Great for both casual listening and studying. The audio filters are a nice touch. ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve ever used. The app is reliable, fast, and packed with features like customizable themes and playback speed. The sleep timer is a lifesaver for bedtime listening. Great job, developers!
M8deUp
This app has transformed my daily walks into exciting literary adventures. The ability to download audio from network devices directly within ListenBook is incredibly convenient. With ListenBook, every moment is an opportunity to explore new stories and gain knowledge. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay and Apple Watch integration is a brilliant touch.
Duchess
🎧 This app has changed my reading game! Now I can 'read' while I work – genius! 📚💼 Audiobook lovers, meet your new best friend! This app's smooth playback and easy organization have transformed my reading experience. 🎉🎧 Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is impressive. My recordings sound crystal clear. Adjusting the tone of the voice is genius. It's like having a customizable audiobook narrator.
Spoiler
The fact that ListenBook supports a wide range of formats without DRM protection is a huge win. With this app, I've discovered the joy of learning while I'm on the move – it's like having a tutor by my side. This app's ease of use has made reading more accessible and enjoyable than ever before. The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple. An acceptable audiobook that met basic expectations. No complaints about quality but nothing remarkable either. Would listen to this narrator again but wouldn't seek them out.
The Shield Toronto
The convenience of downloading audiobooks for offline listening is a game-changer. Audiobooks on this app have made me look forward to my long commutes.
Slug-em-dog
I'm amazed at how immersive the experience is – it's like being inside the story. ListenBook's support for a variety of download methods means I can access my content in the way that suits me best. Quick access to chapters is a blessing. No more scrolling through endless content. Adjusting the tone of the voice is genius. It's like having a customizable audiobook narrator. Bookmarks are a fantastic organizational tool. They help me keep track of important moments in my audiobooks.
Washer
🎙️ Elevating grocery shopping to a whole new level – audiobooks make it an adventure! 🛒📚 🎧 Immerse yourself in stories effortlessly – this app's functionality is the gateway to endless audiobook adventures. 📚🌟 Bookmarks are a lifesaver for study materials. I never lose my place again.
Troubadour
ListenBook has enriched my life with a diverse range of content, all at my fingertips. I can't get enough of the binaural audio processing. It's like a breath of fresh air for my ears. The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple.
Flotsams54
Unwinding with a good audiobook has become my favorite self-care ritual. I appreciate the option to listen to samples before committing to a book. This app's user-friendly layout and quick access to controls have made audiobook listening a breeze. With features like auto-rewind, I never lose my place when I pause listening. ListenBook is the ultimate audiobook player. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history feature—it’s so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
Jade Fox
Flawless support for various audio formats. Very happy with it. I love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device.
Scuffs
🏡 Cleaning the house with an audiobook in the background – talk about productivity! 🧼📖 Book groups feature keeps series and related titles together. Neat and tidy! My audiobook collection has never looked better. Thanks to automatic artwork and metadata.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience