In January 2026, the book “What is Wealth? Economic Fundamentals, Personal Wealth Accumulation, Social Inequalities” (“Was ist Vermögen”) by Dr. Bernd Villhauer, Senior Advisor Finance at the Global Ethic Institute, was published in German by narr/francke/attempto.
Wealth as an individual and social issue
The book addresses a topic that touches on both individual life decisions and social and political issues. Wealth creates scope for action: people with financial resources have greater freedom to shape their lives or influence economic processes. Accordingly, wealth accumulation plays a central role not only in personal life, but also in every economic system.
A dynamic understanding of wealth
Dr. Villhauer approaches the concept of wealth from a broader perspective. He understands wealth not as a static quantity, but as a dynamic structure that must be constantly reshaped and reformed in response to market changes, technological upheavals, and social developments. In this context, he emphasizes: “The topic of ‘wealth’ has very private, but also highly political dimensions.” And “we never have wealth on our own.”
Tangible and intangible forms of wealth
The book does not treat wealth exclusively as a financial quantity. In addition to traditional forms—such as financial investments or tangible assets—it also examines intangible forms of wealth, including skills, learning ability, education, and dialogical and intercultural skills. “Wealth is often more than we think,” says Villhauer.
Economic, psychological, and ethical perspectives
Key questions are examined from different angles in a concise and structured manner: individually and socially, in terms of business and national economics, economically, and psychologically. Ethical aspects also play a role—especially when it comes to the creation, preservation, and distribution of wealth.
Particular attention is paid to the question of why strong wealth inequalities can create social tensions and what significance this has for democracy and social cohesion.
