Born on Third Base

This book was a fascinating read, in part due to its relevance to the current discussions, debates, and policies surrounding income inequality and wealth distribution that permeate our politics today. I think that what is admirable about Collins is that he backs up his words with actions: for example, giving away the majority of the fortune he inherited while still being cognizant of the fact that he still has privileges such as education and knowledge that were granted to him as a result of his family's wealth. 

I find myself agreeing with Collins that income inequality is a major problem in the American economy today and am also a proponent of increasing the taxes paid by the 1%: coming from a middle class family myself, I am very cognizant of the privileges that come with growing up in this kind of environment, but do feel the crunch of bearing the middle class tax burden.Furthermore, it really pains me to see corporations and the ultra rich lobbying for legislation that reduces their tax burden while increasing the burden placed on those belonging to the middle class such as my parents and many other elders in my community. Collins put it extremely eloquently when he described income redistribution not as a method to destroy the wealthy but rather as a method to make the wealthy more equal partners in society and to give others who are less fortunate the chance to be able to obtain some of the privileges that they were afforded from an early age. 

Finally, another part of the book that really made me think was the direction that our country is moving in with regards to this topic. The current politicians influencing economical decisions in our government have shown through their actions that income redistribution is the last thing on their minds, and goes against many of their personal interests as well. Furthermore, Collins mentality of converting his wealth into social equality is a sentiment that isn't very common amongst the 1% and uber-wealthy: I believe that if this sentiment were more common, our society would be able to see real and positive social change and equality. 

Overall, I think Collins book brings up very important points and is able to navigate the touchy concepts of privilege, wealth, and higher taxes in a way that doesn't turn it off to anyone, regardless of political affiliation, from reading it. I think that if Collins book was more mainstream, or if more wealthy people similar to Collins spoke out, it would really help spark the discussion and encourage more people to follow his example.