George Gilder facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Franklin Gilder
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Gilder in April 2005
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| Born | November 29, 1939 New York City, U.S.
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| Education | Harvard University (BA) |
| Occupation | Author and Economist |
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Notable work
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Wealth and Poverty |
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| Spouse(s) |
Cornelia (Nini) Ewing Brooke
(m. 1976) |
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| Allegiance |  United States of America |
| Service/ |
 U.S. Marine Corps |
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George Franklin Gilder (born November 29, 1939) is an American writer and thinker. He is known for his ideas about economics and technology. He also helped start the Discovery Institute. His book, Wealth and Poverty, published in 1981, shared ideas about how economies grow.
Contents
Early Life and School
George Gilder was born in New York City. He grew up in New York and Massachusetts. When he was two years old, his father died in World War II. George was raised by his mother and stepfather on a dairy farm.
He went to Phillips Exeter Academy and then Harvard University. He finished college in 1962. Later, he returned to Harvard to study more. He also worked on a newspaper called the Ripon Forum.
Serving in the Military
George Gilder served in the United States Marine Corps. This is a branch of the U.S. military.
His Career and Ideas
Writing Speeches
In the 1960s, Gilder wrote speeches for important political leaders. These included Nelson Rockefeller and Richard Nixon. He also worked for Senator Charles Mathias, Jr.. During this time, there were many protests against war.
He wrote a book with his college friend, Bruce Chapman. It was called The Party That Lost Its Head. Later, Gilder said he changed his mind about some of his early ideas. He felt that some people he once disagreed with were actually right.
Understanding Economics
Gilder became well-known for his ideas on "supply-side economics." This is a way of thinking about how a country's economy works. It suggests that if you lower taxes, people will work harder and businesses will grow. This can lead to more jobs and more goods being made.
His best-selling book, Wealth and Poverty, helped many people understand these ideas. It explained that giving people reasons to work and invest can make a country richer. He believed that hard work, strong families, and faith help create wealth.
Focus on Technology
In the 1990s, Gilder became very interested in technology and the Internet. He wrote books and a newsletter about new tech trends. He talked about how microchips and fiber optics would change the world.
One of his books, Life After Television, predicted that new devices would make regular TV old-fashioned. He also wrote about Carver Mead, who was important in making microchips. Another book, The Silicon Eye, was about a special digital camera chip. Gilder also invests in technology companies.
Views on Society
In the early 1970s, Gilder wrote about his views on social issues. He believed that strong families and traditional values were important for society. These ideas sometimes caused debate.
Supporting Immigration
Gilder believes that mass immigration helps a country's economy. He thinks that new people coming to a country, especially skilled workers, can help businesses grow. He has said this is true for both the United States and Israel.
Working with a Magazine
In 2000, Gilder bought a magazine called The American Spectator. He changed its focus from politics to technology. A few years later, he sold the magazine back to its original owner.
Sharing His Knowledge
George Gilder often travels to give talks around the world. He speaks about economics, technology, and how society works. He shares his ideas at conferences and with different groups.
Wealth and Poverty Book
Gilder's book Wealth and Poverty was published in 1981. It looked at why some countries and people become wealthy. The book became very popular and sold over a million copies.
In the book, Gilder argued that economic growth comes from people's efforts and investments. He believed that policies that encourage work and family life lead to wealth. He also said that giving and investing are key parts of a successful economy.
Intelligent Design
In 1991, George Gilder helped start the Discovery Institute. This group first focused on improving city transportation. Later, it became known for supporting the idea of intelligent design. This idea suggests that life and the universe show signs of being designed by a higher intelligence. Gilder has written articles supporting intelligent design.
