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.
Nickname Master
The ListenBook app has transformed my device into a portable audiobook library that I can carry everywhere. ListenBook is my trusted partner for all things audiobooks. It's reliable, intuitive, and user-friendly.
Night Train
🎧 Fueling my audiobook addiction with this fantastic app – pure listening pleasure! 📚🔥 The compatibility with Apple Watch is a huge plus. I can control my audiobooks from my wrist!
Tan Stallion
The sound quality is outstanding – it's like having a movie theater in my ears! Audiobooks have become my escape from reality – a journey into captivating worlds. ⭐️ Kudos to the developers for creating an app that's both functional and user-friendly. I can navigate and enjoy my books effortlessly. 📚👏 🔥 Streamlined functionality that's music to my ears – audiobook enjoyment has reached a new level of convenience. 🎵📖 The app is so versatile. It works with all my devices.
Spit Turanga
This app has brought stories to life in a way that traditional reading never could. This app has made my road trips and flights infinitely more enjoyable. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a wonderful way to spread the love of literature.
Eerie
This app has completely transformed my commute – I look forward to it now! ListenBook's user-friendly controls and innovative features have made it an essential tool for my audiobook enjoyment. 📱 Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's ease of use is a booklover's dream come true! 📚🔥 Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to spread the joy.
Evil Smith
ListenBook's sleek interface and precise controls make it a joy to use during my daily listening sessions. Say goodbye to boring commutes – this app's immersive audio experience and intuitive controls have transformed my daily journeys. 🌟📚
QuestWeaver
ListenBook Pro offers amazing value with unlimited audiobook length and noise reduction features. This app's dedication to providing high-quality narration has made all the difference. With this app, I've discovered a new way to make my workouts and downtime more engaging and insightful. 🔥 Streamlined functionality that's music to my ears – audiobook enjoyment has reached a new level of convenience. 🎵📖 I love the ability to change the playback speed. It’s perfect for my needs.
Blink
I'm amazed at how this app has brought back the joy of reading into my daily routine – thank you! 🚗📖 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 a true gem. Noise reduction and voice tone changing are brilliant features.
Lord Nikon
This app has turned my household chores into moments of intellectual growth. 🔥 Elevating my reading routine to new heights – this app is a real page-turner! 📚🚀 User-friendly brilliance! This app's functionality enhances my audiobook experience.
Hen Skittle
🎶 Forget background music, I've got enchanting stories to accompany my chores! 🎵📚 I'm impressed with the wide range of supported formats. Finally, an app that plays all my audiobooks flawlessly.
Blistered Outlaw
The absence of synchronization requirements on ListenBook is a breath of fresh air. ListenBook has reignited my love for storytelling and learning, one audio file at a time. 💡 This app is a brilliant way to squeeze in reading time amidst my busy schedule! 📱👩🍳 ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is an innovative touch that adds a layer of personalization.
Redneck Giorgio
I love the download options. ListenBook gives me so many ways to get my audiobooks onto my device. The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes.
Darkside Isis
The absence of synchronization requirements on ListenBook is a breath of fresh air. Adjustable playback speed is a brilliant feature. It adds a layer of customization to my audiobook enjoyment.
Curio
I can't imagine a day without this app – it has made my audiobook journey seamless and fulfilling. No more carrying heavy books – this app has transformed my reading habits. Audiobook pleasure at its finest! This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and delightful. 📚👌 Noise reduction and voice tone changing are brilliant features.
Slint FUBAR
ListenBook is the perfect blend of technology and art, turning audio into an unforgettable experience. Looping playback is my favorite feature. It's perfect for revisiting complex content. Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is impressive. It's like getting a clear, immersive listening experience.
Eye Devil
This app has brought back the joy of reading, even when I'm on the move. ListenBook's dedication to delivering a top-notch experience is evident in every detail. 🌟 Adding excitement to everyday tasks – this app is my partner in productivity! 📚🚀 Audiobooks made convenient – this app's functionality is a true gift.
GoldTouch
I'm no longer missing out on great stories – this app fits perfectly into my lifestyle. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a true blessing for enjoying clear audio even in noisy environments. I'm addicted to this app's ability to turn mundane moments into opportunities for intellectual growth. Effortless and enriching – that's how I'd describe my experience with this app. Its smooth interface and thoughtful features redefine audiobook joy. 📱📖 ListenBook has become an essential part of my routine. It's more than an app – it's a companion.
InsightfulInk
Finally, an app that supports all audiobook formats. It's a dream come true for audiophiles like me. Elegant design and easy-to-navigate interface. Very pleased with ListenBook. I love the car mode. It’s so convenient for listening while driving.
Twister Hero
ListenBook's dedication to enhancing the audiobook experience has made it my preferred app for listening to content on the go. With this app, I've discovered a whole new way to enjoy literature. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to share the joy of storytelling with friends and family. It fosters connections and conversations.
Lord Nikon
No more straining my eyes – this app lets me 'read' with my ears! This app's intuitive controls and user-friendly layout have made audiobook listening a true pleasure. Navigating through my audiobook collection is a breeze – this app's intuitive interface and convenient controls have made my reading journey effortless. 📱📖 I'm impressed by the extensive statistics feature, allowing me to track my audiobook consumption over time.
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