Books and Me

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. ...

By Matthew Syed (2016) This book has proved to be the most essential read so far this year.  Matthew Syed explains his ideas about human error, learning from failure, marginal gains, creativity and the neurology of a fixed versus a growth mindset using the most vivid and poignant examples from a variety of fields including aviation, medicine, cycling, Formula One and manufacturing.  Syed combines all the best thinking from various sources, including the likes of Karl Popper and Carol Dweck, to produce a thoroughly convincing argument about how we should reform so many of our institutions and work places.  I only wish he could have applied his arguments to the education system as that is more than overdue for the same treatment, but perhaps that is another book all of its own. Rating 10/10