Adapt: Why Success Always Starts with Failure



By Tim Harford (2011)

This is a superb examination of the problem solving nature of experimentation, failure and learning. It is an argument in favor of the approach that works -  local knowledge, autonomy, an initial safe space coupled with an iterative, experimental process and an ability to respond appropriately to failure. It is also a powerful argument against centralisation, standardisation and a supposedly rational, top-down method that is impervious to critique.

The author illustrates his argument with the most lucidly described examples from a range of fields such as military history, oil rig disasters and economics and in the process, he manages to shed light on the driest of subjects.  This is a double win: not only do you have a firm grasp on how evolution works in every field of experience, but you might also end up finally having a handle on  the significance of sub-prime mortgages and credit default swaps.

A desert island book on a big subject.

Rating 10/10.

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