Character Counts

Several reviewers say not to buy this book because it repeats itself over & over. That is just the point that these people (who must have low SAT scores) missed; namely that virtue and honor do not change.We all learn by repetition and that is what Mr. Bogle does. Vanguard was and continues to be founded on bedrock solid honest principles that will not change.He is especially cognizant of his "Crew" (they are above employees)and their constant contribution to the success of Vanguard. Mr Bogle had a heart transpant in 1996 and remains in vigorous and good health. My favorite quotation of his is "The past is history. The furure's a mystery. Today is a gift. That's why we call it the present." (Page 272) This book could be sold in Christian Bookstores. I am sure many in the financial world cannot or will not understand it.I bought 5 copies of this book to give to my family & friends. It not only gives a history of the stock market for the last 80 years (and the shenanigans), but a wonderful lesson in CHARACTER COUNTS.

I can't imagine anyone more qualified to write a book titled "Character Counts" than Jack Bogle--often called "The Concience of the Industry." I have read his other books, and his writing gets better and better.With newspaper headlines describing the ethical failures of Enron, Arthur Anderson, and others, "Character Counts" could not come at a better time. The book is primarily the speeches of Chairman Bogle to his "crew" at the Vanguard company which he founded 27 years ago. A significant portion of the book contains pages bordered in black which explain the phenominal growth of Vanguard and what is happening between speeches. It is exhilarating and reassuring to read words such as these from the CEO of the second largest mutual fund company in the world:"Tell the whole truth and nothing but the truth--with no strings attached--and let the chips fall where they may.""Good ethics is good business.""One of my principal concerns has been that growth not be allowed to deprive us of the character that got us here in the first place.""Our shareholders. We must never let them down.""Treat human beings--from the highest to the humblest--with respect and honor""Do what's right. If you're not sure, ask your boss.""We are utterly committed to a policy that puts a premium on human dignity. We shall succeed by example--from the very top down--and violations will simply not be tolerated."I finished this book today. Its author, Jack Bogle, sets an example of how to run a business--and live life to the fullest (with a failing heart that eventually was replaced.) "Character Counts" should be required reading for every CEO in American. Whether you are a CEO, a small businessman, or an ordinary worker, "Character Counts" is an easy to read guideline for success and happiness in our daily lives. I give it 5-stars.Taylor Larimore