Actions and reactions : an autobiography of Roger W. Babson
His autobiography colorfully illustrates Babson’s pride in his own history and his undertakings in all areas of life—his self acclamations abound in the biography he publishes at age sixty. Beginning with the question of whether or not genetics plays a role in determining one’s vocational inclinations, Babson progresses to describe his childhood in Gloucester, MA, in the chapter “Tragedies of Childhood.” After his college years at M.I.T. are also discussed, Babson began to find his own career in the business world. When he suffered and overcame a life-threatening case of tuberculosis, Babson acquired a greater respect for health maintenance and good conditioning. He also resolved to leave an educational legacy, founding Babson College. During this period, Babson’s religious involvement, which had always been an important part of his life, grew to take an even greater precedence in his days. He continued to make business ventures, and his statistical organization flourished, persevering through national crises such as the Great Depression and wartime difficulties. Babson presents these and many other times in his life, infusing humorous anecdotes and serious reminiscences into his autobiography, which may give the reader a better sense of the author’s views about social involvement, political movements and the church. While he refrains from delving deep into the subject of his personal family life, Babson does give enthusiastic advice about marriage, hobbies and recreations, and spiritualism in the book that often reads more like an instructive “guide to better living” than a narrative of one man’s life.