Product guide

Capital in the Twenty-First Century by Thomas Piketty

Capital in the Twenty-First Century by Thomas Piketty examines the long-term dynamics of wealth, inequality and economic growth. The listing describes analysis drawing on data from twenty countries and centuries of economic history. At 704 pages, it is a substantial work for readers prepared for detailed economic and historical discussion.

At a glance

Examines wealth accumulation, inequality and economic growth across long periods of economic history.
The listing says the analysis draws on data from twenty countries, reaching back as far as the eighteenth century.
Discusses the relationship between returns on capital and economic growth, alongside the role of political action.

Price

$45.04Save 21%

Reference price: ~~$56.98~~

Price checked: Nov 14, 2026

View offer Ahead of Black FridayExplore the selection

Often bought together

Debt: The First 5,000 Years,Updated and Expanded

$45.53

Pros and cons

Pros

A broad historical scope gives readers context for debates about wealth concentration and inequality.
The subject spans economics, history and political economy, making it relevant to readers interested in how these topics intersect.

Cons

The 704-page length is a significant commitment, and customer feedback is mixed on readability and length.

Technical specifications

9 specifications

Publication
Publisher	Belknap Press: An Imprint of Harvard University Press
Publication date	April 15 2014
Edition	Illustrated
Language	English
Print length	704 pages

Dimensions and installation
Weight listed	1.22 kg
Dimensions	15.56 x 5.08 x 23.5 cm

Identifiers
ISBN-10	067443000X
ISBN-13	978-0674430006

Who is it for?

A good fit for

Readers looking for an extended historical analysis of wealth, inequality and economic growth.
Students and general readers interested in political economy and economic history.

Less suited to

Readers seeking a short introduction or an easy, quick read.

Customer reviews on Amazon

4.5 / 5 · 5,147 ratings

5 stars71%71%
4 stars20%20%
3 stars6%6%
2 stars1%1%
1 star2%2%

Customer feedback describes the book as valuable, thought-provoking, deeply analytical and informative, with positive comments about the writing. Readability and length draw mixed reactions. Given its 704-page scope and focus on historical data and political economy, it may suit readers seeking depth but require sustained attention. The aggregate ratings lean positive, but do not explain individual readers’ reasons.

Positive themes

Customers describe the book as informative and thought-provoking.
The writing style receives positive comments, including praise for compelling prose.

Mixed feedback

Readers disagree about readability, with some finding it quite readable and others saying it is not an easy read.
Opinions on length are mixed, with some describing the book as long.

Frequently asked questions

What does Capital in the Twenty-First Century discuss?

The listing describes an analysis of capital, wealth distribution, inequality and economic growth, using historical data from twenty countries.

How long is this edition?

The product details list a print length of 704 pages.

Is this book considered an easy read?

Customer feedback is mixed. Some readers find it readable, while others say it is not an easy read. Its listed length also makes it a substantial commitment.