Against the Grain
#1737 of 2,654 all-time
Against the Grain
James C. Scott
4 people recommended it in 3 threads, 2021–2022.
What people on Hacker News said
Grains are the only agricultural product that can grow an early state, because it can be easily taxed, it’s fungible so you can pay with it, and people can’t run off with their field and canals to somewhere else.
It’s kind of a wonderful point that without the taxman there would be no civilisation.
Against the Grain by James C. Scott. Eye opening take on early stages in history
Where it comes up
- Ask HN: What's the best book you read in 2021? 2021 · 2 recommendations
- Ask HN: Which books you have read till now that were worth investing time in? 2022 · 1 recommendation
- Ask HN: Which book can attract anyone towards your field of study? 2022 · 1 recommendation