We learn that in 1945 there were 41.9 workers employed for each Social Security recipient. In 1995, there were only 3.3 employed workers for every recipient. The point is clear. Retirees shouldn't count only upon Social Security. Earlier retirement and increased longevity, combined with inflation, demand far more wealth for a comfortable retirement than many realize.
People view retirement far differently today, the author notes.
Back in the 50's, for example, when pension plans were more common and more people worked in factory jobs, retirement was viewed as a deserved reward for past working years. Today, many people view work and retirement differently. Today, people tended to view work as an integral part of their lives. Overall, there is much good information and insight in this book, but it tends to focus more upon the general stock market than it does upon buying individual stocks. Beyond The Basics reads quickly and enjoyably for both new and intermediate level investors and is a good addition to the investor's bookshelf.