The Passing of the Idle Rich

"The Passing of the Idle Rich" by Frederick Townsend Martin is a critical examination of early 20th-century American society and its elite, often referred to as the "idle rich." The author uses the story to analyze how rapid industrial growth has corrupted social traditions, leading to moral decay, extravagance, and a departure from simpler, more virtuous ideals and traditions. Martin, drawing on his own experiences, argues that the self-indulgence and idleness of the wealthy have created deep social divisions, threatening societal stability and creating an environment where class conflicts can blossom. The book paints a picture of a society grappling with evolving values, critiquing the habits of the elite.