Each summer, an elitist ritual unfolds: a carefully curated reading list for the wealthy, spearheaded by JPMorgan. This year’s selection, filled with 16 titles ranging from Melinda French Gates’ philanthropic musings to AI forecasts by Palantir CEO Alex Karp, encapsulates a moment where the intellectual pursuits of the privileged intersect disturbingly with the pressing concerns of our time. While one might expect that the wealthy would be engaging with literature that addresses the systemic inequalities in our society, the focus instead seems aimed at consolidating ideas that perpetuate their lifestyle.
The annual reading list, now in its 26th iteration, is presented as a treasure trove of enlightenment. Yet, one has to question whether this focus on self-improvement and insight is a genuine attempt to foster positive change or merely a means to solidify their existing power structures. The selection, described by JPMorgan’s chief communications officer Darin Oduyoye as an exploration of curiosity and transformation, raises more questions than it answers. For whom are these books truly intended: the affluent elite polishing their narratives, or are they aiming at a noble goal of fostering societal betterment?
Curiosity vs. Responsibility
As my initial analysis deepens, I can’t help but feel that this emphasis on values, as articulated in voices from family offices, is tinged with irony. Yes, values are important, but it is remarkable how these rich families frame their sense of responsibility towards their wealth-holding descendants. With over $100 trillion set to transition from one generation to the next, the narrative around education and legacy is solely couched in ensuring a “prepared” next generation, often overlooking the transformative power that genuine empathy and community engagement could invoke.
The questioned premise here appears to center on enriching the minds of heirs while neglecting to genuinely engage with the outside world—those beyond their gated communities. The psychological balance pitched to these future leaders feels hollow if juxtaposed against the backdrop of communities suffering from wealth disparity. Why are they not directing some of their curiosity towards understanding the struggles of those less fortunate? The recommendations, while likely intellectually stimulating, offer little in the way of tangible societal contribution.
Experiencing the Elite Lifestyle
In addition to the series of recommended readings, these wealthy families are also being directed towards luxurious summer experiences—from exclusive exhibitions to premium racing series. While engaging with art and sport can certainly enrich one’s life, one must question whether these experiences foster meaningful connections or serve simply as an extension of their privileged lifestyles.
The criticism lies not in the pursuit of knowledge or experience, but rather in how these pursuits are shaped by an insular ethos. If this reading list is meant to guide not just individual enlightenment but collective societal progression, shouldn’t there be a more substantial openness towards diverse narratives—those from the margins who don’t have access to the kind of wealth that allows for leisurely summer reads?
While JPMorgan’s summer reading list may resonate with those tucked away in their seaside estates, one cannot help but feel it is a missed opportunity—a chance lost to weave the social fabric of our nation with voices that truly reflect the myriad experiences alive today. The continuation of such an exclusive narrative is less a reflection of engagement with the world and more a reinforcement of existing disparities.