Andrew Carnegie Article example essay topic

Wealth "The Gospel of Wealth" written by Andrew Carnegie discusses the post Civil War industrial expansion era, a time that produced immense wealth for many business tycoons. Andrew Carnegie, an elite industrialist, created a very large wealth for himself during this time. Some of the elite industrialists tried to change their "robber baron image by curbing their often ostentatious lifestyles and seeking opportunities to enhance the community". Andrew for one, decided that it was imperative for wealthy individuals to disperse their wealth throughout the society for the advancement of the community.

In his article he believes that the conditions of society have revolutionized over the past hundred years, and it was inevitable that some individuals would become quite prosperous. He believes that the change that has occurred, should not be looked down upon but should be welcomed, because then their can be great things. Furthermore, Andrew Carnegie made a list of duties for men with wealth to abide by. He suggested that the wealthy should set of example of modesty, by shunning the display of extravagance, and should live unostentatiously. Carnegie believed that the rich man should become a trustee for the poorer man, either giving insight, superior wisdom, or through experiences. Carnegie believes that the rich man should be restricted to the examples of Peter Cooper, Enoch Pratt of both Baltimore and Brooklyn, who have improved the community and have created things such as parks for everyone to enjoy.

He concludes, that a wealthy man who dies rich, will be unwept, and unhonored, while being disgraced. Thus, one should be a philanthropist and give back to the community. I truly feel that Andrew Carnegie article is filled with great principles. I think it is great when you see wealthy individuals giving back to the community. Although, I find it almost ironic and contradictory that after having written this that he lived in such an extravagant mansion. Nevertheless, I think his house is beautiful and it is great that he gave so much back to the community, like libraries, a university, and recreational places.

A good friend of mine from school back in Miami had a very affluent grandfather who owned the distributing rights to numerous popular beverage companies. He passed away this month and had over 2,000 people at his funeral. Aside from being a very wealthy man he devoted his life to philanthropy and created several very well recognized charities. In lieu of flowers and sympathy gifts they asked for donations to his charity organizations and were able to raise thousands of dollars. I think Andrew Carnegie might be right in the regard that one should not merely pass on wealth to their heirs but rather they should put it to a good cause for the betterment and well being of others.