Empire of Pain: The Secret History of the Sackler Dynasty

The Empire of Pain is a groundbreaking and thought-provoking book that delves into the fascinating history of the Sackler family, one of the wealthiest families in the world.

This gripping narrative takes readers on a journey through three generations of the Sackler dynasty, from their humble beginnings during the Great Depression to their rise as leaders in the pharmaceutical industry. At the heart of the book is the story of Arthur Sackler, a visionary marketing genius who revolutionized the way drugs were sold and marketed.

His innovative approach to advertising and his ability to co-opt doctors and influence the FDA helped make Valium a household name, earning the Sacklers their first fortune. But the Sacklers' success was not without controversy.

Forty years later, Arthur's son Richard ran the family-owned Purdue, which launched OxyContin, a far more potent and dangerous drug that generated an astonishing $35 billion in revenue.

The book sheds light on the devastating consequences of this drug, including the opioid crisis that has ravaged communities across the globe. Through its examination of the Sacklers' rise to power and their impact on the world of pharmaceuticals, Empire of Pain offers a thought-provoking exploration of the ethics of big business and the true cost of ambition.

It is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of money, power, and morality.