Collapse of Complex Societies

By: Joseph A. Tainter

Published: 1988

262 Pages

Briefly, what is this book about?

A new (at the time) theory for the collapse of societies based on declining marginal returns to complexity.

What's the author's angle?

This is a book definitely written in opposition to previous theories (think Spengler, Toynbee, etc.) many of which Tainter rejects as overly moralistic.

Who should read this book?

If you're interested in how the United States will end (and I can't imagine how you're not) this is a great book.

Specific thoughts: Okay so this is how collapse happens. Can it be stopped?