Thomas Sowell is Back Again to Discuss His Book Wealth, Poverty, and Politics

Recorded on September 8, 2016
Hoover Institution fellow Thomas Sowell discusses inequality and how it is part of the human condition. Sowell notes that political and ideological struggles have led to a dangerous confusion about income inequality in America. We cannot properly understand inequality if we focus on the distribution of wealth and ignore wealth production factors such as geography, demography, and culture. What is important is not inequality but human capital; once human capital is unleashed it creates an enormous amount of wealth for people of all classes. In addition there needs to be a sense of humility and gratitude for the generations that have gone before us for the prosperity we have today.
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[@ericnolle5195]

I have trouble sitting through most 3 minute videos, but 42 minutes of Thomas Sowell is not enough for me.

[@complutense35]

Thomas Sowell at 86 years of age, as brilliant and lucid as ever.

[@diddlididdli1376]

He is very sharp for his age, indeed.

[@edwardkamps1137]

He's very sharp period. He's infinitely more lucid than anybody I met from my generation (Millenials)

[@benreinicke560]

Is he really 86? He hardly looks older than 65...

[@StudioArtFX]

Did you see him at 65?! He looked 30!!

[@joelucas65]

I find him to be brilliant. I think he mixes the quality of life and standard of living up a little to much. I think if he distinguished between the two more, that he would be much better off in explaining his points.

[@casablancasj448]

42 minutes of brand new Sowell content on my birthday, what a present

[@lilblackduck2001]

The Gods have smiled upon you on your day of birth.

[@Ashenden]

Mr. Sowell’s books should be required reading for everyone, but especially for those wanting to hold a political office.

[@alanthorpe3640]

I discovered Thomas Sowell only a few months ago at the age of 76 and in that time from these videos and his books I have learned more about humanity than the previous 76 years. My life is infinitely better because of him passing on his wisdom.

[@themaniaclips7854]

"The pain of poverty is what gets you out of poverty" man if that isn't the truth idk what is.

[@joaoguedes6624]

As a 17 year old student, I am in love with this book. I can say that it has enabled me to think critically about wealth and poverty, from a whole different economic perspective. It is so full of information and facts that I really have to take my time while reading, and at times even read specific chapters twice.

[@jereladjohnson]

The guru killing it, as always..

[@cinkidlv]

Can you imagine Spike Lee saying the same? I can easily imagine Denzel saying something similar, but Spike, P-Diddy, C-Brown (idiot bastard), and same, saying as much? Back in the day, I would not be surprised hearing this from a "black" person (we are all from Africa, get over it). But today, with gubment interference? No. Not going to happen. We really need to recognize the "exceptional" versus "Popular" today. Black, white, any other color you want to name, recognize the exceptional, not by bank account, but by ideas, ideas that actually work, in the past, now, and in the future. For those who do not know history, Capitalism is the ONLY thing that has produced, repeatedly, actual freedom for all. Good luck if you think otherwise.

[@MariannaKatz17]

His books are fantastic. I've listened to most of them on Audible. He's the GURU! I'm proud that he's an American.

[@cinkidlv]

Yes, ma'am. I do agree. A MIND versus a "RACE" speaking. How original and unlike the present tense. :-)

[@MariannaKatz17]

My favorite (albeit it sets my hair on fire) is Intellectuals and Race.

[@ianschmitt4991]

Jerel Johnson Genuinely, Sowell is of my hero's

[@consolecontempt9524]

"We live in an age when rhetoric prevails and no one cares about the facts" - T.S.

[@joelucas65]

Sadly, I think he has great rhetoric, but quite a bit of facts are against him and his stories.

[@ErikOosterwal]

Socrates and Plato were right: Rhetoric is evil. Unfortunately, Aristotle didn't learn from his teacher and his teacher's teacher and thought that maybe a little rhetoric might be alright; now that's the only thing the self-proclaimed intellectuals have and logic and reason are no longer the drivers.

[@MissCandy350]

He has turned me into a conservative!

[@calvinscott415]

Another thomas sowell episode. Just as I thought the world was going to end

[@johnstockwellmajorsmedleyb1214]

Recorded Sept 8 2016

[@BarbaraJoanneBJ]

Boy do I know how you feel.

[@paulstreehousepublishing]

Peter Robinson and Thomas Sowell. Never a disappointing conversation. Thank you for this gift!

[@evanthomas2756]

This man is a national treasure!

[@timmoen1083]

The best part is when Robinson says "Paul Krugman," and Tom Sowell just laughs. I would love to see Sowell just absolutely obliterate Krugman in a one to one debate, like he did feminist Harriet Pilpel on "Firing Line" or Frances Fox Piven on "Free to Choose." Robinson was wrong; Thomas Sowell is not a rock star. That's not enough to describe him. He is a living, breathing legend. May God bless this man with as many more years as possible.

[@soapbxprod]

AMEN! He RULES!

[@shaminoranger8588]

That would be like watching a sumo wrestler taking on a little kid.....so highly entertaining then!

[@darbyheavey406]

Try Dr.Thomas Sowell, public intellectual. A gem!

[@cyaneyed7146]

The world is a brighter place for having Thomas Sowell in it.

[@DesecrationUK]

There are few people I respect as much as this man.

[@mperdue12]

God bless Thomas Sowell I discovered him when I was in the 9th grade after my shop teacher told me how the democratic party would never lead any one to prosperity but themselves. When I sat out to prove him wrong I came across Sowell, along with Milton Friedman, who gave me an understanding of the world that I would never have without him and my shop teacher. I am a better man because of these men.

[@JulioMo]

I've been watching 3 hours of Thomas Sowell. I feel amazing. So inspirational.

[@michaellindsay1075]

Dr. Sowell cuts straight to the heart of it. I felt like truth just slapped me in the face and instead of being upset I promptly burst out laughing with a recognition that such a slap is the greatest thing one man can do for another. Thanks Hoover Institution and Dr. Sowell.

[@soapbxprod]

I just want to wash his FEET... What a GIANT!

[@agiftedrighterdotcom]

very true. he can make one look like a fool and you can't even be mad.

[@leonielson7138]

I think that Thomas Sowell's solution to Illegal Immigration is "stop giving them welfare", which I fully support.

[@nickygfman]

Within 2 minutes Thomas proves his legendary status with the remark about the origins of poverty. Well done sir.

[@jimhughes1070]

Dang! Study history! Really actually study history! Thank you, Thomas!

[@lilblackduck2001]

The man is like a mage of indiscriminate age, come down from the mountain to bless us all with his wisdom.

[@nyambatikwamboka7065]

YOU SURE ARE RIGHT!!!

[@user-zr2lg8tl9h]

I'm going to cry when we lose this man!

[@RoundTwoPR]

I seriously love this man. Only discovered him a little over a year ago, and am now proud to say that I own 3/4s of all his writings. He has helped shape my worldview, and has helped me to really embrace critical thinking and reasoning. I hope this dude lives for at least another 10 years, he looks great for 86!

[@flannelsykes0]

The soothing tones of an eloquent man who studied the statistics and understood the facts.

[@AdamM]

Love it! You're right that Sowell is a rockstar!

[@user-kf7gr9sg6g]

And he's got a great sense of humour!

[@eduardos2109]

Its brilliant how he unfolds complex contemporary issues with such simplicity! I wish he could live 100 year more to shed light to people.

[@RedMcc]

Wow. Such simple logic. He is beautifully articulate.

[@yoonjeongsoo9378]

I just know that I will cry like a baby many years later when this man passes away. I thank him for everything he has done, and I am happy that he is such a prolific writer. I wish you all the good health in the world. I love you Dr. Sowell.

[@jdr9656]

This man is quickly becoming my idol!

[@bronxkies]

This makes me happy. Him and Robertson together are like the dream team. They have great chemistry.

[@nelsano3]

Tom Sowell is a total legend.

[@person-ie1fe]

Like a painting, this is a fine masterpiece.

[@AVLLumberJack]

Probably one of the only men that will make me shed a tear when he leaves this world. Hopefully the next generation can learn a thing or two from him.

[@ballinbuff]

Mr. Sowell is brilliant! This is my first time hearing of him, glad I found this.

[@pillznarRy]

The 4 folks who thumbed this video down i truly pity. Truly feel sorry for the sad pathetic thought process in which you live your life. If you could thumb this video down you truly are a lost cause. This man is honestly one of the most sincere honest common sensical human beings on the planet. Not *one* man on this planet could fill _half_ of his shoes. Ill mourn the day we lose this man. As if i personally knew him.

[@azelo00]

Thomas Sowell has changed my views more than any other person. Thank you for another great interview with him !

[@Maceta444]

I've never seen a man in his late 80s who has seemingly kept all clarity of mind since he was young. Truly remarkable.

[@MrSilus2000]

I just smile and listen intently when this man speaks.

[@vaioboy1410]

When Peterson looks at Sowell after he said "Hillary Clinton" is really really gold

[@arakashmahale1]

This man is a L E G E N D.

[@eorlundandromeda7442]

I like that in his older age he seems to have more clarity of thought. funny how that works out.

[@jodies1621]

I honestly can say I love this man. Such an intellect

[@laro802]

What a beautiful mind and man. Great interview. Thank you both.

[@yagirlllwavy]

THIS IS GOLD

[@jackbotman]

Diamonds*

[@TheArtOfCharlieConstantinou]

I find Thomas Sowell too inspirational beyond words to describe. Not only does his wisdom give me hope, it gives me the means to strive in this world, to better myself and set the highest bar possible in my field. And, most importantly, to be self reliant. I only wish I had the privilege of a tutor like himself in the educational circles when I was growing up in North London. To help guide me and lay the necessary foundations to go out into the competitive world. During my education, I was only subject to rigid academia and some parochial, emotional rhetoric. Never anything I could apply. Rarely anything practical or related to good, old fashioned common sense. All I can say is, thank the heavens for Thomas Sowell!

[@serpentines6356]

@Ian...Spread your insights to the younger generation - they need it...

[@goldenboy7819]

This is wisdom and comprehensive insight. Thomas Sowell is like a newly discovered jewel.

[@alleycat8589]

His voice, articulating his intelligence ... wonderful!

[@justinhebert5155]

Thank God for KZbin, I am getting such an education from these videos. Uncommon Knowledge has become one of my favorite programs.

[@crookedeyebastard]

Thomas Sowell is the GOAT. The interview he did with Ben Shapiro was great.

[@davidobed7272]

God bless you Thomas Sowell, great human being.

[@graphguy]

A living icon. One of the greatest minds of all time and definitely the voice of reason and sanity in our crazy world.

[@stefanadamcik8221]

I think Dr. Sowell is brilliant, and enjoy many videos which feature his work, but I especially enjoy it when he speaks in person. He has a subtle inflection with his words that brings his points into focus much more sharply.

[@MrGiffmoney]

HOOVER INSTITUTE FO LYFE YO. SOWELL IS MY HOME BOY.

[@espada9]

Word, I feel u homie! Sowell = tru player!

[@rootbeer4888]

Yes, Quite.

[@seansheridan4354]

I'd love to see more of these with Thomas Sowell.

[@jessesewell7922]

Such a brilliant man. We needed him on TV at least weekly, responding in this fashion to latest statements, quotes, assertions from pretenders.

[@jamesfrels7492]

When so called trendy liberals say " we need to have a conversation " , this is how its done. Thank you Thomas & thank you stanford!!!

[@MrVinnyable1]

what? money doesn't fall from the sky. really?? another brilliant show with this man!!

[@shoothoopsnotgunsofphilade1769]

MrVinnyable1 it falls out of printers is there any difference

[@mdehaanb]

Thomas, you're one of my heroes. Just thought you should know that.

[@DeMeza725]

Great as always. As a young man I've huge respect for Dr. Sowell, and even more so thinking how hard it must have been for such an intelligent man to see government and people make the same mistakes decades after decades...

[@jakkuhl6223]

Hurray! Every Thomas Sowell exposition is a gift for us all! When he passes on, the world will be a lesser place and I treasure every moment I get to see these new videos where he lays out his ideas.

[@verfed]

Can't listen or read too much of Dr. Sowell. Brilliant man!

[@safouanepieterse9149]

Dr. Thomas Sowell is awesome, watched the whole 42 minutes.

[@scottyo2490]

Dr. T Sowell is the smoothest, suavest and smartest cat that the Lord ever created!

[@hasdrubal121]

Thomas Sowell described as a rock star !!! Definitely sitting opposite his biggest fan Peter Robinson. I admire and am grateful to have found Thomas Sowell and his books, due in no small part to these interviews shared on KZbin by the Hoover institute.Having Thomas Sowell read at the end was a real touch of class. I am a fan, thanks for everything, both to Thomas Sowell and Peter Robinson.

[@Wawi633]

Always a joy to listen to Thomas Sowell's calm and intelligent voice.

[@johnbedell2376]

I love this man. His breadth of knowledge of not just economics but human behavior is unmatched. He is a treasure that I’d be willing to guess most Americans know nothing about. And that there, is criminal.

[@reeve1able]

one of the best book's i've ever read

[@Teppest33]

I wish people would improve on the charter schools. I went to a KIPP school when I was in middle school and it was terrible. I was being bullied, gym and extracurricular courses were being eliminated because of the students' general behavior, and by the time I went to the 8th grade, 70% of the students were failing their classes. The teachers made a loophole by turning most of their class work and homework assignments into extra credit to boost students' grades up. I already had all A's, but after this was implemented, I had a 113 in my Social Studies class. There was so much busy work that I was completely unprepared for my future education.

[@Oliver-tm7jm]

I wait for a long time to see Thomas Sowell on this show and he never disappoints. Any chance you could have him on to do a weekly segment?

[@BasedBrooklyn]

his voice has the same energy that it had 30-40 years ago

[@freddychavira]

Dr. Thomas Sowell is a great man, i pray he sticks around longer in this upside down world.

[@dhouston3962]

Love Sowell. Thank you Hoover Institute!

[@RepublicTeaRoom]

I love this show! I listen to Thomas Sowell while riding my bike! Insightful man...I enjoy his earlier appearances as well!

[@pillznarRy]

Oh man!!!! That *laugh*!!!!!!!!! When he quoted Bernie Sanders he couldn't make it through the quote and busted out laughing!!! GOD i love me Thomas!!!!!!!

[@chadelliottfahlman]

I love Thomas Sowell as much as he loves taupe blazers.

[@Valelacerte]

Thomas Sowell is incredible and still so sharp and mentally agile in his eighties.

[@tnt4mind]

Love this guy, his books should be studied in every school!

[@ChrisMonelt]

Just subbed after finding a different “Uncommon Knowledge”. This series has been missing from my life, and I suspect I’ll have listening material on the train for the next 6 months with “Uncommon Knowldge” alone!

[@alipions]

"Welfare states only transfer material wealth not the human capital..."

[@drewwilson7005]

I love how this man's mind works, a true genius! If only we had about 50 million more with a similar outlook in the black community.

[@CoreyChambersLA]

Always glad to see one of the few who fully understand economics.

[@dr94279]

More people should watch this man

[@kennethhenry3500]

I really have to get around to adding all his books to my kindle.

[@RukaSubCh]

The actions of the masses of unnamed people who have worked tirelessly toying away in the economies of the world, that system of people working with each other to further their individual goals is far smarter that any group of government that tries to meddle in the affairs of those in that system. The system can be explained as part of game theory that is on a grand scale that can barely be comprehend, is amazing.

[@sunbro6998]

T. Sowell in the house!

[@Therongunner]

Isolation...KZbin makes sure we are not isolated and it gives us a glimpse into the knowledge and wisdom of this great man.

[@agiftedrighterdotcom]

This isn't a repeat folks, this is brand new!! Don't let the similar setting and color coordination deceive you. Mr. Sowell, if you read these things please check out my website, I promise you will like it. I've been stalking Peter on Ricochet to get some exposure but he keeps ignoring me. I would be honored if you would read it and subsequently make me your Padawan. I've only been dreaming of this for about forever.

[@mzk1489]

Thank you. It’s nice to hear someone who appreciates the West without denying that Islamic civilization had once been quite advanced.

[@soapbxprod]

This great man is my HERO. He should have been awarded the Medal of Freedom 20 years ago by George HW Bush. Bless his immortal soul.

[@morphicwraith]

It is ridiculous how sharp this man is at 86.

[@GreyWolfLeaderTW]

18:30 - "The Welfare State reduces the incentives to develop human capital." And that right there is probably the best summation of why welfare systems are evil. They turn people into dependents who cannot fend for themselves, and who will not become the next Bill Gates or Steve Jobs, developing technologies that help people become more productive and earn more money on one hand, and make them cheaper on the other, allowing even poorer people to acquire commodities that were once luxuries.

[@Libertino]

I wanted to come up with an insightful comment about this conversation, but none is necessary. I've learned a lot. Thank you Dr. Sowell and Peter Robinson!

[@CoreyChambersLA]

Thomas Sowell is a great American hero because he helps prevent some very common human mistakes. He helps prevent many huge mistakes.

[@dongaetano3687]

Thanks Peter, and Tom of course. This is one I hadn't watched yet I think (?), 70 anos you know. I believe what struck me today besides all the common sense and research and Truth, freeing, enlightening Truth, was the sheer beauty of the presentation, no persuasive, high minded, esoteric rhetoric. Brilliance in simplicity as I often say these days. It also makes me feel a bit sorry for my friends, young and older, here in Very Left justified Massachusetts, that they would likely not listen to our 'beloved' Tom Sowell. His thoughts and speech are antidotes to greed, envy, victimhood narrative, jealousy and false premises as to cause and effect and, bad politics. Life is tough, but in Western countries, you have the best shot at making it better, barring tragedy and even then, in Western societies there are safety nets of some kind. His point on learning where and how wealth is created and emulating those practices puts the ball in our court to get us out and improve our lives. As he often does, he gives us a lesson in history, character and delineates between truth and falsehood in political rhetoric. We are better for having listened. Thanks again, Dr Tom Sowell.

[@jodycameron-roy2544]

Sowell is great! Please get him on again whenever you can.

[@xleax6479]

The one, the only, the legend, Thomas Sowell. May he live for another 20+ years! (He is 86).

[@Gowan08]

Wonderful. Thank you uncommon knowledge and especially Thomas Sowell for continuing the good fight.

[@torq21]

Its nice to hear Mr. Robinson acknowledge Mr. Sowell's rockstar like status for so many people.