This text investigates how the culture of capitalism functions as a global system that shapes human behavior, social structures, and the distribution of resources. Richard H. Robbins, a professor of anthropology, utilizes a cross-cultural perspective to examine the historical development of market economies and their subsequent impact on global inequality. The book argues that capitalism is not merely an economic system but a pervasive cultural framework that influences consumption, labor, and the environment. By synthesizing anthropological research with economic theory, the author provides a critical analysis of the mechanisms that sustain global disparities.

The text is widely regarded as a foundational academic resource for students of anthropology and sociology seeking to understand the intersection of culture and global economic systems. Its systematic approach to complex issues makes it a standard reference for analyzing the social implications of modern capitalism.