Charles Murray - Human Accomplishment and the Future of Liberty | The Lunar Society #10

Motivation

Charles Murray shares his motivation for writing 'Human Accomplishment,' a book that took five intense years to complete. Inspired by Daniel Borston's 'The Discoverers,' he sought to create a comprehensive panorama of human accomplishment, something he felt was missing from Borston's work. Murray's approach was driven by a desire to read the book he wanted to see in the world, leading him to undertake this monumental task 1.

I had a book I wanted to read, and the way to do that was to write it.

--- Charles Murray

His unique method of integrating vast domains of knowledge sets his work apart from others in the field.

   

Research

Murray's research methods for 'Human Accomplishment' were exhaustive and meticulous, involving historiometric research and extensive data collection. He spent two years compiling inventories from various sources, including the 'Dictionary of Scientific Biography,' which alone took him 1710 hours 2. His approach was highly personal and idiosyncratic, often diving deep into specific topics before moving on to the next.

For a few shining moments there, you knew everything.

--- Charles Murray

The Lotka curve, a concept he discovered during his research, illustrates the skewed distribution of great accomplishments, further enriching his analysis 3.

   

Challenges

Writing 'Human Accomplishment' posed significant challenges for Murray, particularly in integrating vast amounts of information. Unlike many authors who map out their books in advance, he couldn't start writing until much of his research was complete 1. His process was likened to sculpting, where he cut away everything that didn't fit his vision.

You have this block of wood, and you cut away everything that isn't a horse.

--- Charles Murray

This method allowed him to create a cohesive narrative, though it required immense effort and time 2.