In 'Bowling Alone', Robert D. Putnam presents extensive data showing how Americans have become disconnected from family, friends, neighbors, and democratic structures. He argues that this decline in social capital has significant negative impacts on physical and civic health. The book explores various factors contributing to this decline, including changes in work, family structure, suburbanization, and the influence of technology such as television and the internet. Putnam also discusses historical precedents and potential solutions for reviving civic engagement and social connections.
In this book, Mark Carney examines the shortcomings and challenges of the market over the past decade, arguing that these have led to rampant public distrust. He focuses on four major crises: the Global Financial Crisis, the Global Health Crisis, Climate Change, and the 4th Industrial Revolution. Carney proposes tangible action plans for leaders, companies, and countries to transform the value of the market back into the value of humanity. He argues that the world has moved from a market economy to a market society, where everything is valued based on its monetary price, eroding societal values such as solidarity, fairness, responsibility, and sustainability[1][3][4].
In 'Good to Great,' Jim Collins and his research team investigate why some companies achieve long-term greatness while others do not. The book identifies key concepts such as Level 5 Leadership, the Hedgehog Concept, a Culture of Discipline, and the Flywheel Effect. These principles are derived from a comprehensive study comparing companies that made the leap to greatness with those that did not. The research highlights that greatness is not primarily a function of circumstance but rather a result of conscious choice and discipline. The book provides practical insights and case studies to help businesses and leaders understand and apply these principles to achieve sustained greatness.
Sherry Turkle's "Alone Together" explores the paradoxical nature of human connection in the digital age. The book examines how technology, while connecting us globally, can simultaneously isolate us from meaningful interactions. Turkle highlights the complexities of online relationships and the potential for both intimacy and alienation. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the psychological impact of technology on our sense of self and our relationships with others. The book offers a thought-provoking analysis of the evolving human experience in a technologically advanced world.
This book is a personal and institutional story that delves into the transformation of organizations and society. Dee Hock chronicles his journey from a humble upbringing to becoming the first President of VISA International, highlighting the challenges and innovations that led to the creation of VISA. The book explores the concept of 'chaordic' organizations, which combine chaos and order, and discusses their potential to address complex societal and environmental problems. It also reflects on Hock's lifelong search for answers to questions about institutional failure, individual alienation, and societal disarray, offering insights into leadership, organizational health, and the future of human systems in harmony with nature.
How did Dee Hock of Visa transform the way we pay for things? How did Jimmy Wales, founder of Wikipedia, create the biggest knowledge transfer engine the world has ever seen? And how did Barack Obama and his grassroots team revolutionise political campaigning? They did it by doing what most leaders dread – they gave away power. On July 19 Matthew Barzun, former US Ambassador to the United Kingdom, came to Intelligence Squared to share the leadership insights he has gained over the course of his successful and varied career. For the discount on the book click here: https://www.primrosehillbooks.com/product/the-power-of-giving-away-power-how-the-best-leaders-learn-to-let-go-matthew-barzun-intel/
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