Description

Empire of Pain by Patrick Radden Keefe is a gripping exposé that delves into the rise and fall of the Sackler family, who built an empire through their pharmaceutical company Purdue Pharma, the maker of OxyContin. This meticulously researched book chronicles their immense wealth, influence, and the devastating opioid crisis tied to their actions. Keefe unveils the family’s secretive practices, manipulative marketing, and evasion of accountability, shedding light on the human toll of corporate greed.

Through vivid storytelling, Empire of Pain exposes the intersection of power, money, and morality, making it an essential read for those seeking to understand the roots of the opioid epidemic and the broader implications of unchecked ambition.

Key Points

• A Family Empire: Chronicles the rise of the Sackler family from humble beginnings to extraordinary wealth through their pharmaceutical ventures.
• The Opioid Epidemic: Examines the role of Purdue Pharma and OxyContin in fueling a public health crisis.
• Corporate Secrecy: Highlights the family’s efforts to shield their reputation while evading accountability for the crisis.
• Meticulous Research: Based on investigative journalism and legal documents, the book offers a detailed account of the events.
• Moral Questions: Explores the ethical implications of prioritizing profit over human lives and well-being.