We have changed our privacy policy. In addition, we use cookies on our website for various purposes. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. You can learn about our practices by reading our privacy policy.

The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine Allusions and Cultural References

When authors give shout outs to other great works, people, and events, it's usually not accidental. Put on your super-sleuth hat and figure out why.

Literary and Philosophical References

Historical References

  • Warren Buffet (1.3, referenced throughout)
  • Benjamin Graham (2.19, referenced throughout)
  • John Greenblatt (2.36, referenced throughout)
  • Alan Greenspan (2.71, referenced throughout)
  • Bill Clinton (5.7)
  • Richard Posner (6.49)
  • Ben Bernanke (7.16)
  • Henry Paulson (8.60)

Pop Culture References

  • Gordon Gekko from Wall Street (1987) (3.4)
  • Jay Leno (6.29)