Jeremy Hunt Reveals His Top Five Influential Books Ahead of Talk

Jeremy Hunt, the former Chancellor of the Exchequer, has announced his selection of five influential books that have shaped his perspectives. He plans to discuss his own book, Can We Be Great Again?, at the St Andrew’s Book Festival in London on November 25, 2023. His choices reflect a diverse range of topics, from the evolution of civilizations to the challenges of aging and the impact of artificial intelligence.

Book Selections Highlight Diverse Themes

Among the titles Hunt has chosen is Peak Human by Johan Norberg, set to be released in 2025. This book addresses concerns regarding the decline of Western civilization and democracy. Norberg examines historical civilizations, from ancient Athens to the modern Anglosphere, analyzing the factors that contributed to their rise and fall. Hunt describes it as “the best book I have read this year,” emphasizing Norberg’s optimistic conclusions that suggest not all is lost.

Additionally, Hunt highlights Super Agers by Eric Topol, also due for release in 2025. This book delves into the medical challenges associated with aging, covering diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and dementia. Hunt, who will celebrate his 60th birthday next year, finds Topol’s insights particularly relevant and compelling. He praises the author as his “favourite American doctor,” noting the valuable advice he has received from him.

Powerful Narratives and Critical Insights

Another book featured on Hunt’s list is Broken Threads by Mishal Husain, released in 2024. This work offers a poignant exploration of the impact of the partition of India through the lens of Husain’s family history. Hunt appreciates her ability to weave personal narratives with significant historical context, making it a standout among contemporary broadcast journalism.

Ray Dalio, a prominent hedge fund manager, contributes to the conversation with his book How Countries Go Broke, slated for release in 2025. This title tackles the often-avoided topic of national debt, presenting a sobering analysis of the financial challenges facing economies today. Hunt commends Dalio’s accessible writing style, which encourages readers to engage with an important issue that could affect their financial futures.

Finally, Hunt recommends The Optimist by Keach Hagey, also due out in 2025. This biography of Sam Altman, the co-founder of OpenAI, offers insight into the future of artificial intelligence. Given the transformative role of AI in society, Hunt believes this book provides a valuable perspective on the potential directions of technology and its societal implications.

These selections from Jeremy Hunt not only reflect his personal tastes but also highlight crucial themes relevant to contemporary society. As he prepares to share his thoughts at the St Andrew’s Book Festival, these books serve as a foundation for discussing the challenges and opportunities facing our world today. Titles mentioned are available for purchase from various retailers, including The Week Bookshop.