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Bestselling Nonfiction

Browse popular, highly rated secondhand nonfiction books at affordable prices, starting from just S$3.90! Titles in this collection boast above 4 stars on Goodreads, with at least 500 ratings.

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Freakonomics
Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J. Dubner  | Harpertorch

Freakonomics

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.01

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

"Freakonomics" will challenge you to see the hidden side of everything. It's a book that defies traditional economics, looking into the curious elements that connect seemingly unrelated events. If you love having your perspective flipped and appreciate when complex ideas become relatable–and even entertaining–then this is the read for you. It's the sort of book that leaves you with conversation starters for years to come.
The Idealist: Jeffrey Sachs and the Quest to End Poverty
Nina Munk | Anchor

The Idealist: Jeffrey Sachs and the Quest to End Poverty

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.94

from $8.90

53% off est. retail

In stock: Like New

This book offers a sincere narrative that exposes the challenges of combating poverty—a compelling story for those who are intrigued by global development and humanitarian efforts. Nina Munk's detailed observations provide an immersive look into the complexities and setbacks faced by a passionate economist, making it a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in the real-world implications of economic theories.
Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed
New
Jared Diamond | Penguin Books

Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed

from $11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

from $11.90

In stock: Well Read

"Collapse" isn't just a history lesson; it's a wake-up call. Diamond uses real past societies to show how we're not immune to the forces that toppled them. It's for you if you're intrigued by history but also concerned about our future. You'll finish the book seeing our world with a mix of fascination and critical concern.
Freakonomics
New
Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J. Dubner  | Penguin

Freakonomics

from $8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.01

from $8.26

29% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good, Well Read

If you enjoy having your mind playfully challenged with unexpected perspectives on everyday phenomena, "Freakonomics" might just be the intellectual rollercoaster you're looking for. It's not your typical economics book; it delves into the hidden side of things you thought you knew. Steven Levitt invites you on a journey through intriguing questions, revealing that at times, what you thought was cause and effect might just be a blend of coincidence and incentive.
Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions
Dan Ariely | Harper

Predictably Irrational: The Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions

$8.90 from $8.26 12% off

Goodreads rating: 4.12

$8.90 from $8.26 12% off

49% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good, Well Read

"Predictably Irrational" is a captivating exploration into the counterintuitive corners of human decision-making. Dan Ariely provides a unique blend of insightful experiments and engaging examples, making this book a fascinating journey into understanding why we often trip over our own mental wiring when making choices. It's a read that not only illuminates the quirks of the human mind but also empowers us to make more deliberate and beneficial decisions in our daily lives.
The Upside of Irrationality: The Unexpected Benefits of Defying Logic at Work and at Home
Dan Ariely | Harpercollins

The Upside of Irrationality: The Unexpected Benefits of Defying Logic at Work and at Home

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.03

from $8.90

70% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you've ever wondered why we sometimes make decisions that defy logic, Dan Ariely's "The Upside of Irrationality" might just offer you some fascinating insights. It's a book that takes a deep dive into our unpredictable behaviors and proves to be both enlightening and entertaining. Whether it's the quirks of the dating scene or the madness that sometimes prevails in the workplace, you'll find yourself nodding along, perhaps even finding comfort in understanding the chaos of humanity a little better.
The Rise and Fall of Nations: Forces of Change in the Post-Crisis World
Ruchir Sharma | W. W. Norton & Company

The Rise and Fall of Nations: Forces of Change in the Post-Crisis World

$16.90 from $12.90 24% off

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$16.90 from $12.90 24% off

66% off est. retail

In stock: Very Good

You might find "The Rise and Fall of Nations" by Ruchir Sharma particularly enlightening if you're interested in how political and economic climates interlace with global events. Sharma provides a front-row seat to understanding economic nuances by simplifying complex concepts into ten accessible rules. His blend of personal encounters and analytical acumen makes it a thought-provoking read for anyone looking to grasp the intricacies of national fortunes in a post-crisis world.
Principles Of Economics - Thryft
Euston Quah, N. Gregory Mankiw, Peter Wilson  | Cengage Learning Asia

Principles Of Economics

$70.90 from $28.90 60% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$70.90 from $28.90 60% off

In stock: Very Good

If you're looking to grasp the basics of economics with a focus on the Asian market, "Principles of Economics" could be the perfect starting point. By adapting Mankiw's authoritative text to include Asian economic institutions, policies, and real-life examples, this book doesn't just teach economic concepts; it connects them to the world you interact with every day. Whether you're a first-timer in economics or looking to see how the principles apply specifically in Asia, this read promises relevance and clarity in one package.
The Working Poor: Invisible in America
David K. Shipler | Vintage

The Working Poor: Invisible in America

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.04

from $8.90

67% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"The Working Poor: Invisible in America" shines a sobering light on the realities faced by those who, despite their labor, remain ensnared in poverty. If you've ever been moved by personal testimonies and are drawn to social issues, this book is a crucial lens through which to view the often unseen struggles of many Americans. Shipler isn't just pointing out problems; he's offering an empathetic, thorough perspective paired with a call to action that can deeply resonate with anyone concerned about economic justice.
The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable
New
Nassim Nicholas Taleb | Penguin

The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.96

from $8.90

51% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're intrigued by the unpredictable nature of life and how it shapes our world, "The Black Swan" might just be the book to shift your perspective. Nassim Nicholas Taleb's insights into rare yet significant events and our psychological responses to them are as engrossing as they are enlightening. This book doesn't just dissect past occurrences; it offers a way to navigate our future with more resilience and adaptability. Whether you're into economics, psychology, or just fascinated by the unexpected twists of fate, Taleb's exploration will give you plenty to ponder.
The Corporation: The Pathological Pursuit of Profit and Power - Thryft
Joel Bakan | Free Press

The Corporation: The Pathological Pursuit of Profit and Power

$8.90 from $3.90 64% off

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$8.90 from $3.90 64% off

84% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

"The Corporation" by Joel Bakan might resonate with you if you're curious about the inner workings and moral implications of modern economic giants. It poses the controversial comparison of corporations to psychopathic personalities, a notion that challenges the reader to reconsider the structure and impact of corporate power on society. Moreover, it's not just a critique but a platform for potential reforms, offering a balance between analysis and solutions.
Blowout: Corrupted Democracy, Rogue State Russia, and the Richest, Most Destructive Industry on Earth
Rachel Maddow | Crown

Blowout: Corrupted Democracy, Rogue State Russia, and the Richest, Most Destructive Industry on Earth

from $9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.35

from $9.90

In stock: Like New

Maddow's "Blowout" offers a daring and insightful tour of the murky intersections between global politics and the oil industry. Her sharp wit pierces through the complex narrative, unearthing the impact of fossil fuels on corruption, democracy, and global unrest. If you're eager to understand how these forces shape our world, Maddow serves as an incisive guide, ready to challenge your perceptions about the oil that fuels our lives literally and figuratively.
A History of the Modern World From 1917 to the 1980s
Paul Johnson | Orion Publishing Co

A History of the Modern World From 1917 to the 1980s

$10.90 from $7.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.27

$10.90 from $7.90 34% off

56% off est. retail

In stock: Well Read

If you're intrigued by the seismic shifts that forged the contemporary world, "A History of the Modern World" offers a compelling narrative from a widely respected historian, Paul Johnson. It's thorough yet accessible, providing a panoramic view of how events from 1917 to the 1980s have shaped our current geopolitical landscape. This book is a significant read for anyone fascinated by history's impact on today's society.
The Commanding Heights: The Battle Between Government and the Marketplace That Is Remaking the Modern World
New
Daniel Yergin, Joseph Stanislaw  | Simon & Schuster

The Commanding Heights: The Battle Between Government and the Marketplace That Is Remaking the Modern World

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.09

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

The Commanding Heights is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the shift from centrally planned economies to free-market capitalism that occurred in the latter half of the 20th century. The authors expertly analyze the impact of deregulation, privatization, and globalization on the world economy, providing a comprehensive view of the subject that is both informative and engaging. This book is highly recommended for anyone interested in economics, politics, or international relations.
Superfreakonomics: Global Cooling, Patriotic Prostitutes, and Why Suicide Bombers Should Buy Life Insurance
New
Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J. Dubner  | Penguin | Allen Lane

Superfreakonomics: Global Cooling, Patriotic Prostitutes, and Why Suicide Bombers Should Buy Life Insurance

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

from $8.90

In stock: Well Read

Superfreakonomics could be a good read for someone who enjoys learning about taboo topics from an economic perspective. Levitt and Dubner's unique approach to analyzing social issues with data gives readers an unconventional look into topics such as prostitution and terrorism. Readers may appreciate the authors' witty writing style and thought-provoking insights.
Exploring Corporate Strategy: Media Edition: Text and Cases - Thryft
Gerry Johnson | Ft Prentice Hall

Exploring Corporate Strategy: Media Edition: Text and Cases

$8.90 from $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.94

$8.90 from $3.90 61% off

In stock: Well Read

If you're delving into the corporate world or studying business, "Exploring Corporate Strategy" is a vital companion. It breaks down strategic management theories and their practical applications, intertwining case studies that bring the concepts to life. By reading this book, you'll gain a substantial understanding of how companies navigate their paths towards success, which can profoundly impact your professional strategy or academic pursuits.
Freakonomics
Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J. Dubner  | Penguin

Freakonomics

from $6.90

Goodreads rating: 4.01

from $6.90

In stock: Well Read

Review: Freakonomics is a mind-bending journey that unravels the hidden patterns and surprising correlations that govern our daily lives. With a fresh perspective and sharp analysis, Steven D. Levitt delves into peculiar topics like the impact of names on success, the strange similarities between estate agents and the Ku Klux Klan, and even the secret lives of drug dealers. This intriguing book challenges conventional wisdom and invites readers to question the world around them, offering a fascinating glimpse into the invisible forces that shape our society. A must-read for those seeking to uncover the secrets hidden beneath the surface of everyday life.
Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Survive
Sold out
Jared Diamond | Allen Lane

Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Survive

from $10.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

from $10.90

Out of stock

"Collapse" isn't just a history lesson; it's a wake-up call cloaked in the enigma of fallen civilizations. As you thumb through Jared Diamond's piercing analysis, you might find yourself reflecting on today's world with a newfound perspective. The parallels he draws could be the lens through which you view our current societal choices and their potential outcomes. This book could be your catalyst for deeper thought on sustainability and the future.
The Growth Delusion: The Wealth and Well-Being of Nations - Thryft
Sold out
David Pilling | Bloomsbury

The Growth Delusion: The Wealth and Well-Being of Nations

$13.90 from $9.90 30% off

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$13.90 from $9.90 30% off

47% off est. retail

Out of stock

A provocative critique of the pieties and fallacies of our obsession with economic growthWe live in a society in which a priesthood of economists, wielding impenetrable mathematical formulas, sets the framework for public debate. Ultimately, it is economists who set the agenda for how much we can spend on our schools, highways, and defense; who decide how much unemployment is acceptable and whether it is right to print money or bail out profligate banks.The backlash we are currently witnessing suggests that people are turning against the economists and their faulty representation of our lives. Despite decades of steady economic growth, many citizens feel more pessimistic than ever, and are voting for candidates who voice undisguised contempt for the technocratic elite. For too long, economics has relied on a language which fails to resonate with people's lived experience, and we are now living with the consequences.In this powerful, incisive book, David Pilling dives into the biases and failings of our obsession with economic growth, and explores the alternatives to GDP, from measures of wealth, equality, and sustainability to measures of subjective wellbeing. Authoritative, provocative, and eye-opening, The Growth Delusion offers witty and unexpected insights into how our society can respond to the needs of real people instead of pursuing growth at any cost.
Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything
Sold out
Steven D.; Dubner Levitt | Allen Lane

Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything

$8.90 from $8.26 12% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$8.90 from $8.26 12% off

Out of stock

Ever thought about the economics of drug dealers or what sumo wrestlers and teachers might have in common? If such quirky questions intrigue you, "Freakonomics" is right up your alley! It's not a standard economics textbook—it's a trove of unusual insights that will shift how you see the everyday world. The unconventional perspective might just hook you, whether you're into economics or just love a good intellectual twist.
Peddling Prosperity : Economic Sense and Nonsense in an Age of Diminished Expectations - Thryft
Sold out
Paul Krugman | W. W. Norton & Company

Peddling Prosperity : Economic Sense and Nonsense in an Age of Diminished Expectations

from $5.07

Goodreads rating: 3.92

from $5.07

62% off est. retail

Out of stock

Recommendation: - This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the economic landscape of the United States over the past two decades. Paul Krugman takes a critical look at the rival ideologies that have influenced economic policy, exposing the flaws in their thinking. His ability to dissect economic fallacies and offer practical solutions makes this book a valuable resource for those seeking clarity in an age of diminished expectations.
Collapse : How Societies Choose to Fail or Survive - Thryft
Sold out
Jared Diamond | Penguin Books Canada, Limited

Collapse : How Societies Choose to Fail or Survive

from $12.24

Goodreads rating: 3.93

from $12.24

Out of stock

From the ghostly stone heads of Easter Island to crumbling Mayan cities hidden deep in the jungle, the mysterious ruins of lost worlds and vanished civilizations continue to haunt us. How could such mighty societies fall? And could our skyscrapers one day stand derelict and overgrown like ancient temples? Jared Diamond takes us on an epic journey around the globe, through the history of humanity and on to the future, to discover how - when tomorrow comes - we can be survivors.
Superfreakonomics : Global Cooling, Patriotic Prostitutes and Why Suicide Bombers Should Buy Life Insurance - Thryft
Sold out
Steven D. Levitt | Allen Lane

Superfreakonomics : Global Cooling, Patriotic Prostitutes and Why Suicide Bombers Should Buy Life Insurance

from $11.43

Goodreads rating: 4.0

from $11.43

55% off est. retail

Out of stock

This book is a captivating sequel to the international bestseller, Freakonomics. With their unique style and wit, the authors delve into controversial subjects like terrorism, charity, and prostitution. Prepare to be amazed as Superfreakonomics uncovers hidden truths and transforms the way you see the world. It's a thought-provoking read that will challenge your perspectives and leave you wanting more.
Superfreakonomics : Global Cooling, Patriotic Prostitutes and Why Suicide Bombers Should Buy Life Insurance - Thryft
Sold out
Stephen J. Dubner | January 1, 2011

Superfreakonomics : Global Cooling, Patriotic Prostitutes and Why Suicide Bombers Should Buy Life Insurance

from $5.71

Goodreads rating: 4.0

from $5.71

36% off est. retail

Out of stock

Review: Superfreakonomics is a fascinating exploration of unconventional economic principles that will challenge your preconceived notions. Levitt and Dubner dive deep into controversial topics, presenting mind-bending truths that are backed by unexpected economic insights. From discussing the surprising risks of walking drunk to the intriguing dynamics between prostitutes and policemen, this book will keep you engaged from start to finish. Prepare to have your perspective shifted and your assumptions shattered as you explore the hidden side of societal issues.
Freakonomics : A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything - Thryft
Sold out
Steven D. Levitt, Stephen J. Dubner  | Penguin

Freakonomics : A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything

from $9.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

from $9.90

35% off est. retail

Out of stock

Freakonomics is a fascinating exploration of the hidden side of the world we live in. Levitt and Dubner use their unique analytical perspective to unveil the truth about things we thought we understood but don't. Their unconventional approach to analyzing data leads to surprising and thought-provoking insights on everything from cheating teachers to bizarre baby names. This book is a must-read for anyone looking for unconventional and intriguing perspectives on complex phenomena.
Freakonomics : A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything - Thryft
Sold out
Stephen J. Dubner, Steven D. Levitt  | William Morrow

Freakonomics : A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything

from $8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.01

from $8.26

72% off est. retail

Out of stock

Which is more dangerous, a gun or a swimming pool? What do schoolteachers and sumo wrestlers have in common? Why do drug dealers still live with their moms? How much do parents really matter? What kind of impact did Roe v. Wade have on violent crime? These may not sound like typical questions for an economist to ask. But Steven D. Levitt is not a typical economist. He is a much heralded scholar who studies the stuff and riddles of everyday life-; from cheating and crime to sports and child rearing-; and whose conclusions regularly turn the conventional wisdom on its head. He usually begins with a mountain of data and a simple, unasked question. Some of these questions concern life-and-death issues; others have an admittedly freakish quality. Thus the new field of study contained in this book: freakonomics.Through forceful storytelling and wry insight, Levitt and co-author Stephen J. Dubner show that economics is, at root, the study of incentives-; how people get what they want, or need, especially when other people want or need the same thing. In "Freakonomics," they set out to explore the hidden side of ... well, everything. The inner workings of a crack gang. The truth about real-estate agents. The myths of campaign finance. The telltale marks of a cheating schoolteacher. The secrets of the Ku Klux Klan.What unites all these stories is a belief that the modern world, despite a surfeit of obfuscation, complication, and downright deceit, is not impenetrable, is not unknowable, and-; if the right questions are asked-; is even more intriguing than we think. All it takes is a new way of looking. Steven Levitt, through devilishly clever and clear-eyed thinking, shows how to seethrough all the clutter."Freakonomics" establishes this unconventional premise: If morality represents how we would like the world to work, then economics represents how it actually does work. It is true that readers of this book will be armed with enough riddles and stories to last a thousand cocktail parties. But "Freakonomics" can provide more than that. It will literally redefine the way we view the modern world.(front flap)
Freakonomics
Sold out
Stephen J. Dubner, Steven D. Levitt  | Penguin Uk

Freakonomics

from $8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.01

from $8.90

Out of stock

"Freakonomics" isn't your standard economics textbook; it's a treasure trove of quirky insights where data tells unexpected tales. For those curious about the hidden economic factors that influence our daily lives, Levitt offers a fresh, sometimes shocking, perspective. If you enjoy having your mind bent in new directions, this book will not only entertain but also arm you with stories that challenge conventional wisdom.
Why Nations Fail : The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty - Thryft
Sold out
Daron Acemoğlu, James A. Robinson  | Crown Currency

Why Nations Fail : The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty

from $8.06

Goodreads rating: 4.08

from $8.06

57% off est. retail

Out of stock

If you're intrigued by the monumental question of what makes countries thrive or dive, "Why Nations Fail" could prove to be an enlightening read. Daron Acemoglu and James Robinson weave an accessible narrative brimming with historical cases, arguing that a nation's fortunes hinge on its political and economic institutions. It's a rigorous yet digestible analysis that prompts reflection on global inequality, and it may very well shift your perspective on how countries can foster prosperity for their citizens.