The Science of Success

Wallace D Wattles – 1860–1911

A Book Review

Who should read this book?

I rather like the way the author himself suggests who should read these pages:

“This book is practical, not philosophical; a practical manual, not a treatise upon theories.

It is intended for men and woman whose most pressing need is money; who wish to get rich first and philosophize afterward. It is for those who have, so far, found neither the time, the means, nor the opportunity to go deeply into the study of metaphysics, but who want results and who are willing to take the conclusions of science as a basis for action, without going into all the processes by which these conclusions were reached.”

The publication structure

Readers are treated to what amounts to be three books in one, namely:

The Science of Getting Rich.

The Science of Being Well.

The Science of Being Great.

Wallace is better known for his publication, “The Science of Getting Rich” which is how he became rich.

The message that the book brings us

It is safe to say that Wallace saw the need for all to be rich, as the creator of the Universe was rich, in the sense that He wanted for nothing and had everything in abundance. His philosophy was that the same creator, had, in the process of creating, imparted Himself into all of his creation; one way or another.

Wallace puts it this way, “There is a thinking stuff from which all things are made and which, in its original state permeates, penetrates and fills the interspace of the universe”.

Wallace saw that, not only did all need to be rich, but this wealth must be gained by creative thought and not by competitiveness (by strife and rivalry). He also saw that we should help others to join this wealth generation path along with us. “Want for everybody, what you want for yourself”.

This trilogy of books could well have been originally written, because Wallace’s understanding was that true human fulfillment could only come about when we gained wealth, enjoyed health and finally became great.

I need to point out here, that being ‘great’ (in Wallace’s terms) is not becoming famous or well known but rather that our moral conduct consists of behavior that shows respect not only for all our fellow humans, but also the gift of life itself. This must also not be confused with philanthropy, where we make it part of our lifestyles to be giving of our wealth and being involved in ‘doing good’ enterprises. But rather that by our success, integrity, good health and general well being, we steer others in the same direction.

Wallace saw that these three sciences must work together, for our fulfillment in this life.

Are there any hitches to the reading of this book?

Yes, there are. Immediately, three come to my mind.

Firstly you will have to read slowly and carefully as the English is not always easy to understand. But perseverance will reward you handsomely.

Secondly, the chapters are filled with wise sayings and great advice. I found that I had to stop underlining these, as I would have ended up underling the whole book! (I do use pencil, so don’t faint at the thought)

Lastly, as the author already mentioned, this book is a manual and certainly not for those who want snuggle up in a warm bed and be thrilled by some romantic story. Maybe you will be like me, going through the book regularly and systematically, so that slowly, but surely, I am becoming wealthy, healthy and great.

Finally

Among the self development guru’s of our day, it is commonly said that many souls dream of wealth, health and greatness, but sadly, only one per cent will attain those dreams. The suggested reason for this phenomenon is that ninety nine percent do not invest action and commitment into their dreams.

There are times when I hate statistics and this surely is one of those times, but I live in hope for myself and all those who are faithful dreamers.

The book, ‘The Secret of Getting Rich’, I believe is available on the internet without cost. As for the other two, I am not sure, but the “The Science of Success” is available from Amazon.

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