I’ve read this book twice since I bought it back in January. I’ve since loaned it to my best friend, and I hope he reads it, because I think he could use the ideas in it to propel his businesses.
Some have been critical of Friedman, and I have to admit, that when I hear him speak (as I have on Charlie Rose and other talk shows), I don’t always agree with Friedman’s politics, but for the large part he is very thought-provoking. His way of looking at the world is refreshing and not tied to any one ideology. I strongly urge everyone to read this book. It’s especially important for people who are working in technology or the media, but also for any entrepreneur or business owner.
Here’s a slice of review from Tom Nissley:
“What Friedman means by “flat” is “connected”: the lowering of trade and political barriers and the exponential technical advances of the digital revolution that have made it possible to do business, or almost anything else, instantaneously with billions of other people across the planet. This in itself should not be news to anyone. But the news that Friedman has to deliver is that just when we stopped paying attention to these developments–when the dot-com bust turned interest away from the business and technology pages and when 9/11 and the Iraq War turned all eyes toward the Middle East–is when they actually began to accelerate. Globalization 3.0, as he calls it, is driven not by major corporations or giant trade organizations like the World Bank, but by individuals.”
That last sentence is very important, in my opinion. This book helps you realize, if you haven’t already, that changes in our world have made it easier for folks to make an impact. Whether it be for charity or to build a fortune, the tools are in place, and the landscape is level (flat) enough that ANYONE can do it.
Friedman’s book changed my life in many ways, and I hope, when you read it, it will have a similar impact… Make sure you get the expanded and updated edition, which contains Friedman’s latest thoughts on new trends and political analysis.