Empire of Pain: The Secret History of the Sackler Dynasty

What does Arthur’s passion for art reveal about his character, and his increasing belief in his own power and infallibility?

Consider the role of friendship and business associations in the book. How do friendships shape business practices? How do they reveal strengths and weaknesses?

Is Howard Udell indicative of the organizational culture at Purdue? Why or why not?

Why do Purdue’s efforts to reform its organizational culture, as well as reformulate OxyContin, fail to solve the company’s problems?

Arthur Sackler and others at Purdue saw medicine as a noble profession. Does this book agree with this idealization? How does Radden Keefe view medicine in relation to the law, journalism, or art?

What is Radden Keefe’s conclusion about the role of the law in achieving justice?

Compare Madeleine Sackler, Joss Sackler, and Nan Goldin. What versions of art, personal identity, and politics do they embody?

Describe and analyze moments of tone-deafness and lack of self-awareness in the book. How does extreme wealth trap and isolate those who have it?