Person
Every book Bill Gates recommended on podcasts
Bill Gates is a prominent philanthropist and technology figure who frequently discusses global issues, philanthropy, and societal trends across podcasts. During appearances on programs like SmartLess and On Purpose with Jay Shetty, Gates has shared several influential book recommendations that reflect his analytical approach to history, human behavior, and social media. He recommended Jonathan Haidt's The Anxious Generation when discussing the critical need for better rules surrounding children and social media usage. To explore historical progress and provide perspective, Gates cited Steven Pinker's The Better Angels of Our Nature, noting it is the book he has gifted to others the most. Reflecting on his own philanthropic evolution, he recalled that Warren Buffett recommended Andrew Carnegie's The Gospel of Wealth to help him think about philanthropy and social impact. Additionally, Gates mentioned Yuval Noah Harari's Nexus to illustrate how new technologies and media forms are not always deployed for immediate societal benefit.
Books recommended by Bill Gates
-
The Anxious Generation
The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt is a preeminent exploration of how the great rewiring of childhood through smartphones and social media is driving an epidemic of mental illness among young people.
Recommended“you know there's a book by Jonathan height called the anxious generation”
Where to get it
-
The Better Angels of Our Nature
The Better Angels of Our Nature by Steven Pinker is a sweeping historical analysis that argues violence has steadily declined over the course of human history due to the evolution of civilization, governance, and empathy.
Recommended“there's a Stephen Pinker book called better angel of our nature”
Where to get it
-
The Gospel of Wealth
The Gospel of Wealth by Andrew Carnegie is a classic 1889 essay and collection of writings arguing that the wealthy have a moral obligation to use their fortunes for the betterment of society.
Recommended“you know Carnegie Gospel of wealth the history of what rock of did”
Where to get it
-
Nexus
Discussed“I was reading this book Nexus where Harari says then when the prin press comes along it actually is books about witches”
Where to get it
Books Bill Gates wrote
Appearances
| Episode | Podcast | Date | Books |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Bill Gates" | SmartLess | 2025-02-10 | 1 |
| BILL GATES REVEALS: "I Was Wrong About Success…" | On Purpose with Jay Shetty | 2025-02-03 | 3 |