Examining Secrets: Patrick Radden Keefe’s Journey into the Dark Corners of Power

Episode 120,   Jan 24, 01:00 AM

What is Empire Of Pain book about?

"Empire of Pain" is a book written by Patrick Radden Keefe. It investigates the Sackler family, who amassed a multi-billion-dollar fortune through their ownership of Purdue Pharma, the company responsible for developing and promoting the highly addictive prescription painkiller OxyContin. The book explores the rise of the Sackler family, their extensive philanthropy, and the deceptive marketing tactics used to push OxyContin while downplaying its addictive properties. It also delves into the devastating consequences of the opioid epidemic that unfolded in the United States, as well as the legal battles and public scrutiny faced by the Sackler family.

Why is Empire Of Pain book worth reading?

1. Revelatory Exploration: The book uncovers the hidden truths and secrets behind the Sackler family, who built their fortune through Purdue Pharma, the company responsible for the opioid crisis in the United States. It provides a deep dive into the history, tactics, and mindset that propelled the Sacklers to immense wealth and influence.

2. Timely and Relevant: As the world continues to grapple with the consequences of the opioid epidemic, Empire of Pain sheds light on the people who played a significant role in fueling this crisis. By examining the motivations and actions of the Sacklers, readers gain a better understanding of the far-reaching impact of greed, medical ethics, and corporate responsibility.

3. Engaging Narrative: Patrick Radden Keefe is a skilled storyteller, and Empire of Pain has been widely praised for its compelling storytelling. The book weaves together personal narratives, interviews, and meticulous research to create a captivating narrative that keeps readers engaged throughout.

4. Comprehensive Analysis: Through extensive research and interviews with key individuals, Keefe provides a comprehensive analysis of the Sackler family's rise to power, their influence within the art world, their deceptive marketing practices, and their role in the opioid crisis. Readers gain a thorough understanding of the complex web of individuals and systemic issues that perpetuated the crisis.

5. Social Commentary: Empire of Pain goes beyond a mere exposé of the Sacklers; it also serves as a broader social commentary on wealth, power, and the influence of big pharma. The book raises important questions about accountability, the role of the medical community, and the failures of regulatory systems.

Overall, Empire of Pain offers a thought-provoking examination of a family's role in perpetuating the opioid crisis, while raising important ethical and societal issues. It is a meticulously researched and grippingly narrated book, making it worth reading for anyone interested in understanding the human costs of the opioid epidemic and the systemic factors that contributed to it.

The author of Empire Of Pain book

The author of the book "Empire of Pain" is Patrick Radden Keefe. He is an American investigative journalist and author, known for his work on issues related to crime, conflict, and corruption. Keefe has written for publications like The New Yorker, The New York Times Magazine, and Slate. In "Empire of Pain," Keefe delves into the history of the Sackler family, who amassed billions of dollars through their development and aggressive marketing of OxyContin, a highly addictive painkiller. The book explores the family's role in the opioid crisis and the legal battles they faced as a result.