This one is for real: Thomas Sowell, one of the most brilliant men ever to embrace the study of economics or sociopolitical organization, has announced his retirement from commentary at the age of 86.
Sowell’s innumerable penetrating observations on economics, politics, and the social order could fill dozens of books...and they have. I own most of them. I can’t remember ever being bored by a Sowell opus. I can’t remember ever saying to myself (as I’ve said in the throes of many other men’s tomes) “Why won’t he get to the point?” One of Sowell’s books, The Vision of the Anointed: Self-congratulation as a Basis for Social Policy, has been on my what-to-give list for more than twenty years. It’s never failed to elicit praise from its recipients.
Sowell was especially valuable for his skill at demonstrating that much that we think we know is wrong. His commentary pieces often centered on a “but of course” notion and tore it to bleeding shreds. It’s not easy to do that in a few hundred words – take it from someone who attempts it rather frequently – but Sowell made it look effortless.
It’s said of many who retire or die that “he will be missed.” Sometimes it’s even true. But of Thomas Sowell, there is no doubt whatsoever. Enjoy your retirement, Dr. Sowell.
Besides being brilliant, the man was never full of himself. Always low key. Never sneeringly disagreeing with an opposing viewpoint...just disagreeing.
ReplyDeleteA great man. And a high school dropout.
He is one of the best. And the left double-dog hates him cause he's black. They get the vapors.
ReplyDeleteI bought Sowell's book on economics. The book is a very straightforward treatment of the subject that gave me many "Ding! So THAT'S how that works, eh?" moments. I have a great deal of respect for the man and his accomplishments.
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Although sad to read of his retirement, it is gratifying that he leaves a nice body of work to continue to learn from. Many times, in my quest to open the eyes and minds of young co-workers, black and white; who seemed determined (thanks to Barry Soetero, et al) to deepen the racial divide - Thomas Sowell's writing did just that - opened their eyes and minds - Grandpa
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