Why should men leave great fortunes to their children? If this is done from affection, is it not misguided affection?
Meaning
In The Gospel of Wealth, Carnegie questions inheritance, arguing that large bequests can sap the drive of heirs. The idea applies at any scale: give your children skills, education and values before money, and consider how your resources could create lasting good.
Source: The Gospel of Wealth (1906)
About the author
(1835–1919) was a Scottish-American industrialist who led the expansion of the American steel industry in the late 19th century. One of the wealthiest individuals of his time, Carnegie later became a leading philanthropist, donating a significant portion of his fortune to education, libraries, and cultural institutions. He believed strongly in the ‘Gospel of Wealth,’ which argued that the rich have a responsibility to use their wealth for the greater good. His contributions led to the establishment of thousands of public libraries worldwide. Carnegie’s legacy reflects both industrial innovation and a lasting commitment to social progress and education.
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