Capital in the Twenty First Century is a comprehensive analysis of wealth inequality in the Western world throughout the past two centuries, and what it means for today's economy.

Karl Marx's three-volume magnum opus known as Capital has been one of history's most influential economic works, inspiring revolutions around the world and a debate over capitalism that continues to this day.

But considering that Marx was writing in the 19th century, do his ideas need updating for the 21st?

Thomas Piketty is a French economist and Centennial Professor at the London School of Economics.

In this book, translated to English by Arthur Goldhammer, Piketty takes a close look at the past two centuries of wealth and inequality in Europe and the U.S.

Using detailed historical data, Piketty provides a fresh critique that incorporates both its strengths and drawbacks of capitalism.

By looking at how we got to where we are today, Capital in the Twenty-First Century gives us an idea of where we might go next.