I’d pick:
* **Basic Economics by Thomas Sowell** — This is an approachable, pain language introduction to economics. Given that so many discussions on Reddit involve economic policies, I think grounding those discussions in some basic understanding of market forces would be beneficial.
* **The Coddling of the American Mind by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt** — One of the big areas of exploration in this book is the negative effects of “filter bubbles” and “echo chambers” on discourse and the free exchange of ideas. Reddit is ground zero for this effect, unfortunately, and I think readers would get value out of seeking data that seeks to disprove rather than confirm their viewpoints.
* **Shoe Dog by Phil Knight** — This is a random one, admittedly. Whatever your views of Nike and Phil Knight are, this is one of the best examples I’ve read of how hard work, resourcefulness, and dogged determination can in fact put you in a position to be a success. Yes, not everyone starts from the same position. And yes, luck plays a part in everyone’s lives. But everyone is dealt a hand and knowing how to play it can make all the difference.
What are your three?
by trytoholdon