Toxisch Reich - Book premiere by Sebastian Klein

We need to talk - about money, tax justice, billionaires, redistribution and the defence of our democracy.

Sebastian Klein knows what it means to be rich: The co-founder of Blinkist was once a multi-millionaire - and then gave away 90% of his wealth. He is convinced that extreme wealth harms our society, because large fortunes in the hands of individuals are undemocratic, they fuel climate change and divide society.

In doing so, he shines a spotlight on an issue that has long been overlooked by politicians: the wealthy and their role in our society. How are wealth and poverty connected? Why are the richest of all people exempt from inheritance tax? Why is labour taxed so heavily and wealth not taxed at all? And why do some people go on weekend trips into space while others can't pay their heating bills?

Klein's analyses show how much we underestimate extreme wealth as a problem. His book is a passionate appeal for more social justice and a society in which not just a few, but everyone is rich.

On this evening, Sebastian Klein will present his new book in conversation with author Julia Friedrichs, whose book ‘Crazy Rich’ provided a comprehensive insight into the world of the super-rich in the summer of 2024.

‘Toxisch reich’ will be published by Oekom Verlag on 3 February 2025.