The Science of Getting Rich Summary & Key Insights

Wallace D. Wattles' "The Science of Getting Rich" isn't a novel with a plot in the traditional sense; it's a self-help guide presenting a philosophy on achieving financial prosperity. The "key character" is the reader themselves, as the book actively engages the individual in a process of self-improvement and mindset transformation. There's no narrative arc of conflict and resolution, but rather a progression of principles leading to a desired outcome – wealth.

The overarching theme is that getting rich is not a matter of luck or exploitation, but a scientifically demonstrable process achievable through specific thoughts, actions, and beliefs. Wattles argues that the universe is abundant and that wealth is available to all who understand and apply the correct principles. He posits a "universal law" governing the manifestation of riches, emphasizing the power of thought and the importance of aligning one's consciousness with this law.

The book outlines a series of steps to achieve this "getting rich" process. First, it stresses the importance of definite purpose – having a clear, unwavering goal regarding the amount of wealth one desires and the means to acquire it. This requires a strong belief in the attainment of that goal, effectively programming the subconscious mind for success.

Next, Wattles emphasizes faith, not in a religious sense, but as unwavering belief in one's ability to achieve their purpose. This faith needs to be backed by auto-suggestion, consciously repeating affirmations and visualizing the desired outcome until it becomes an ingrained belief. The subconscious mind, according to Wattles, is the power behind the manifestation process, and persistently feeding it positive affirmations is vital.

The book also stresses the importance of gratitude and acting in a way that benefits others. Simply desiring wealth isn't enough; one must actively contribute to the world. This contribution isn't merely altruistic; it aligns with the universal law of abundance, creating a positive feedback loop. Wattles promotes creating value and contributing to society as an integral part of achieving wealth, suggesting this creates a synergy between personal gain and societal good.

Finally, Wattles addresses the importance of persistence, precision in planning, and concentration of thought to ensure continued progress and avoid distractions. He advocates for a consistent, dedicated effort in aligning one's actions with the previously outlined principles. The book culminates in a strong emphasis on this continuous application, portraying wealth acquisition not as a singular event but a continuous process of thought and action. In essence, the "plot" is the reader's journey towards wealth, guided by Wattles' principles, and fueled by their own consistent effort.