Rebel Ideas:- The power of Diverse thinking

  Name of the Book: - Rebel Ideas:- The power of Diverse thinking

Author: - Matthew Syed

No of Chapters: -07

Number of Pages: - 270

Single sentence description of Book: - Diversity leads to enrichment, innovation and development of mankind

What this book is about: - Book is a thought process why diversity of ideas and people is important in solving complex problems and arriving at good decisions. Author had used numerous examples to support his theory like failure of CIA to prevent 9/11 attack, usage of Crossword crackers to solve the encryption code of machine used by Nazis at Bletchley Park near London, loss of human life in Everest expedition led by Rob hall in May 1996, poll tax debacle introduced by British Government in late 1980’s and many more. Book is interesting read on aspect that when a group comprising of same type of people can lead to collective blindness which further lead to bad decision making. Book also elaborates on how decision making is hampered in current hierarchy in organizations where people parrot the views of the leader and fear to put forward their views. This kind of atmosphere leads to generation of clones in organizations which generate same kind of ideas rather than innovating .Author explains the fact that diversity can also become a distraction when applied to simple tasks rather than complex ones. Author explained the trait of dominance which is ingrained in human brains and prevents them from constructive dissent. Book also explains the concept of Eco-chambers in current digital environment where people are exposed to similar kind of ideas, thoughts and information which leads to blindness in perspective. Author has explained the fact why sometimes averaging out humans on basic traits fails miserably by citing the example of failure of 172 aircrafts in 1950. The interesting piece of information revealed in the study of failure was that the cockpit design of the air craft was on basis of average height of pilot while the dimensions of other body parts was completely ignored in the selection  of pilots. It furthers supports the theory of the author that every individual is diverse in itself. Author explains the concept of unconscious bias that are built in our mind by citing the example of early 1970s when it was assumed that men are typically better musicians

Some special insights from the book

1.       On considering the differences of opinion and dissenting views, we can get a richer and more accurate view of the world.

2.       Recombinant innovation is one concept explained in book by citing the example of putting wheels in suitcase. It is merging of two ideas from different fields that are fused together to create a new object.

3.       Possibilities and opportunities become most apparent when we bring a fresh perspective to a complex problem.

Overall Review: - Overall, book is a bible on concept why diversity is important in any organization, culture and society for growth. Book is supported by some great examples from history. Must read book on diversity

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