Linked

Here's a book I can't help but recommend, and highly. Linked: The New Science of Networks by Transylvanian physicist Albert-Laszlo Barabasi, vividly explains how everything from websites to global financial meltdowns are connected. The emergence of of the web as an organizing principle in our lives gives the book particular resonance right now. But it would be a terrific read even if we weren't becoming ever more interrelated. Barabasi's book provides an engaging look at how scientists today limn the dynamics of networks ranging from electrical power grids to terrorist organizations to the path of a virus among individuals. Yet whereas Malcolm Gladwell's The Tipping Point, which covers similar turf, charms the reader with anecdotes, Barabasi keeps you reading with his deep understanding of the science and his expansive coverage of networks throughout history in a range of settings. He provides the science behind ideas like Six Degrees of Separation, the 80/20 rule, and how the rich get richer. His book calls to mind Complexity by Mitchell Waldrop, another scientific work that had no business being so compelling. And yes, I did say Transylvanian physicist.

Posted by tom at May 14, 2002 12:26 AM
Comments
Post a comment
















Recent Writing

Flow as the Grand Unifying Theory of Productivity

Lowering the Personal Entrepreneurial Threshold

Sufjan Stevens, Entrepreneur

Good Writing Begets Good Writing

Authent-Wikiti

Archives


Book cover

HOME

THE BOOK

Read or print the Intro and Chapter 1 .

Read some book reviews at Inc, 1-800-CEO-READ, and the Miami Herald.

Read the publisher's press release.

Visit the companies that Tom discusses in the book

Hear a recent lecture by Tom on the Startup Garden

STARTUP RESOURCES

Read about other books and web sites about starting your own business.

TOM'S WRITING

Just Managing – articles that Tom wrote for The Industry Standard and some Business Articles written for Inc., Fortune Small Business, Harvard Management Update, and other places.

ABOUT TOM/CONTACT

BUY THE BOOK

To buy directly from me, simply go to Paypal and send 15 bucks to Tom@startupgarden.com. I'll take care of the rest. If you have any questions, email me at that address.

© 2001-2003 Tom Ehrenfeld | Site design by Tim Swan