Jeremy Hunt Reveals His Top Five Must-Read Books for 2023

Jeremy Hunt, the former Chancellor of the Exchequer and current UK politician, has publicly shared his five favourite books of the year. Hunt will discuss his own book, Can We Be Great Again?, at the St Andrew’s Book Festival in London on November 25, 2023. His selections span a range of topics, from the challenges of democracy to the future of artificial intelligence.

Exploring Civilisation and Health

One of Hunt’s top picks is Peak Human by Johan Norberg, set to be published in 2025. Hunt describes it as a must-read for anyone concerned about the perceived decline of Western civilisation and democracy. Norberg examines historical civilisations, including Athens and the Anglosphere, and offers a hopeful conclusion: despite numerous challenges, all is not lost.

Another key selection is Super Agers by Eric Topol, also anticipated in 2025. Hunt, who is approaching his 60th birthday, praises Topol as his favourite American doctor. This book delves into the science behind ageing and the diseases associated with it, such as heart disease, cancer, and dementia. Topol brings clarity to ongoing clinical trials, making it an engaging read for those interested in longevity and health.

Insights on History and Economics

Broken Threads by Mishal Husain is another notable mention. Hunt commends Husain for her ability to weave personal narratives with significant historical events. The book, published in 2024, offers a poignant account of the impact of partition in India on her family, enriched by extensive research.

In the realm of economics, How Countries Go Broke by Ray Dalio addresses a critical yet often overlooked topic: the looming debt crisis facing nations. Scheduled for release in 2025, Dalio presents this urgent issue in accessible prose, aiming to raise awareness about the financial challenges ahead. As a successful hedge fund manager, his insights carry weight, making this book a necessary read for those interested in global finance.

Lastly, Hunt highlights The Optimist by Keach Hagey, which provides a glimpse into the future of artificial intelligence through the biography of Sam Altman, founder of OpenAI. This book, also due in 2025, explores the implications of AI technology, including the rise of ChatGPT, which has become increasingly popular. Hunt recommends it as essential reading for anyone curious about the direction of technology and its impact on society.

These five titles reflect Hunt’s diverse interests and offer valuable insights into contemporary issues. For those interested in purchasing any of these books, they are available from major retailers, including The Week Bookshop.