Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 26 votes)
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26 reviews
July 14,2025
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This is an informative account of innovators and how they achieved success.

Some of the innovators were also inventors, but most were not. For example, Eli Whitney, whom we are familiar with, is famous for inventing the cotton gin. However, his more influential impact lies in his innovations in mechanization and the interchangeability of parts.

Some chapters in the book go into great detail about the work of the innovators being covered. As a result, the reader may get lost in the technicalities being described. What keeps the reader engaged, though, are the numerous challenges that most of the innovators faced. These challenges include backstabbers, patent thievery, disbelief in their work or vision, a shortage of money, and difficulty in obtaining funding.

Unfortunately, a weakness in the book is the minimal inclusion of women and minority innovators. Although there are a few women and African Americans included, the number is small. As the author writes in the introduction, "the history of innovation is light on them." The stories of women and minority innovators remain to be told. The narratives of those included in this book also reveal the prejudices of their times.

July 14,2025
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I'll be honest, I didn't read all of this book.

However, it's set up in a case-study type format, which means you don't really have to.

It was truly fascinating to learn about the origin of certain businesses and institutions, such as Sesame Street.

There are some really interesting perspectives on ingenuity in general.

This book was recommended to me by a neighbor who is a business professor.

It's a really interesting read.

I guess, to be honest, it should be on both my read and to-read lists!

Overall, despite not reading the entire book, I found the parts I did read to be quite engaging and thought-provoking.

The case-study format makes it accessible and easy to understand, even for those who may not have a background in business.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning about the inner workings of successful businesses and institutions.

It offers valuable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to be more innovative and creative in their own endeavors.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, a student, or just someone with a curious mind, this book is definitely worth checking out.

July 14,2025
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Social class is an important aspect of society that has a significant impact on people's lives. Understanding social class can help us better understand the world we live in and the inequalities that exist within it. One way to gain a deeper understanding of social class is through reading books on the subject.

There are many excellent books available on social class, but it can be difficult to know where to start. That's why we've put together a list of the top five books for research on social class.

Our list includes books that cover a wide range of topics related to social class, from the history and sociology of social class to the impact of social class on education, health, and politics.

Whether you're a student, a researcher, or simply someone who is interested in learning more about social class, these books are sure to provide you with valuable insights and perspectives.

To learn more about our top five books for research on social class, check out our YouTube video: [Top Five Books for Research on Social Class - YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuBya...)
July 14,2025
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I listened to the abridged audio book. It truly piqued my interest in understanding the process and the reasons behind how the inventions were crafted and subsequently applied to bring significant benefits to the public.

One prominent and recurring theme that emerged was the unwavering tenacity of the inventors. Their determination to see their ideas come to fruition was remarkable. They persevered through countless obstacles and setbacks.

However, it also became evident that this pursuit came at a price in their personal lives. They had to sacrifice time with their families, endure financial hardships, and face the stress and pressure that came with their endeavors.

Despite these challenges, their inventions have had a profound impact on society, improving the quality of life for countless people. It makes me wonder what other great inventions are yet to come and what sacrifices their inventors will have to make along the way.
July 14,2025
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This book focuses on Innovators rather than inventors, although it's true that some innovators are also inventors. Innovators are those who have the ability to take a novel idea and turn it into something significant. Examples include Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, and Ted Turner.

This book presents a diverse collection of innovators from various fields, ranging from powered flight to venture capital, from credit ratings to MRI's. It explores what led them to the point where their innovation was recognized.

The book provides the history of these innovators and the people associated with them, including both the positive and negative aspects of their stories. It also offers a glimpse into the innovation they were responsible for.

There is a wealth of information within these pages, so be prepared for extensive reading. However, it is truly fascinating material, and it is written in a style that allows you to put it down for a while and then pick it back up without any difficulty.
July 14,2025
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The story didn't manage to grab my attention.

To be honest, it felt a little dry for my personal taste.

Perhaps it lacked the necessary elements to truly engage me.

There wasn't enough excitement or emotional depth to draw me in.

The characters seemed rather one-dimensional, and the plot didn't have enough twists and turns to keep me on the edge of my seat.

It was just a bit too平淡for my liking.

However, I understand that everyone has different preferences when it comes to reading material.

Maybe others would find this story more to their taste.

But for me, it simply didn't do the trick.

I was hoping for something more captivating and engaging, something that would make me lose track of time as I got lost in the story.

Unfortunately, this one didn't quite meet those expectations.
July 14,2025
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Anybody who is pursuing a career that will involve intellectual property must read this book. It provides essential insights and knowledge that are crucial for success in this field.

Similarly, anybody attempting patent reform should also read this book. It offers valuable perspectives on the current patent system and suggests possible improvements.

Furthermore, anybody wanting to understand why some of the best technologies never quite made it or why the second mouse got the cheese, so to speak, should not miss this book. It delves into the complex factors that influence the success or failure of technological innovations.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone with an interest in intellectual property, patent reform, or the success and failure of technologies. It is a comprehensive and engaging resource that will expand your understanding and provide you with valuable tools and strategies.

July 14,2025
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Fun to read, interesting and inspiring.

The publisher wrote: The flourishing of America is a captivating story of an inventive people who hold a mystic faith in technology. It begins with the early settlers on the Great Plains, who ingeniously used windmills as a means of obtaining water. Fast forward to the modern era, and we see the electronic whiz kids of the Internet. Innovation and practical inventiveness have been the main forces propelling America to preeminence.

However, there is more to this extraordinary history than meets the eye. Harold Evans delves deeper, tracing how the innovators have time and again emerged as democratizers. Driven not by greed, but by an ambition to be remembered, they have translated the nation's political ideals into economic reality. Their contributions have not only shaped America's technological landscape but also had a profound impact on society as a whole.

This exploration of America's innovative spirit offers valuable insights into the nation's past and present, and serves as an inspiration for future generations.
July 14,2025
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Think of it as The Rest of the Story for the New Yorker set.

This concept implies that there is more to a particular narrative or situation than what has been initially presented. It suggests that there are hidden details, untold events, or deeper meanings that are waiting to be discovered.

For the New Yorker set, known for their sophisticated tastes and appreciation of quality writing, this idea of "the rest of the story" holds particular allure. It invites them to look beyond the surface and explore the nuances and subtleties that might otherwise go unnoticed.

By delving into the rest of the story, they can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and perhaps even be surprised by what they find. It adds an element of mystery and intrigue to their reading experience, making it all the more engaging and satisfying.

Whether it's a fictional tale, a non-fiction article, or a personal essay, the concept of The Rest of the Story for the New Yorker set encourages readers to approach their reading with an open mind and a willingness to uncover the hidden gems that lie within.
July 14,2025
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This book won't be read straight through. It's more of a sip and dip kind of book. You know, the kind you pick up, take a little sip of knowledge here and there, and then put it down.

But there's a downside to it. It's very heavy and awkward. Carrying it around is no easy feat. You might find yourself struggling to hold it for long periods.

Maybe the author thought that a hefty book would give the impression of depth and substance. But sometimes, practicality matters too.

Despite its weight and awkwardness, there might still be some valuable information hidden within its pages. It just requires a bit more effort to access.

Overall, it's a book that has its pros and cons. It might not be the most convenient read, but it could potentially offer some interesting insights if you're willing to put in the time and effort.
July 14,2025
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Nice!

It's really great to discover new things. I must admit that I didn't know about most of these people before.

It's quite astonishing how many interesting individuals there are out there whose stories are waiting to be told.

If only this book could have been 3-4 times longer.

There is so much more that could have been explored and expanded upon.

With a longer length, the author could have delved deeper into the lives and experiences of these people, providing a more comprehensive and detailed account.

It would have been a truly captivating read, allowing us to gain a better understanding and appreciation of their unique contributions.

Nonetheless, what we have so far is still very interesting and has piqued my curiosity.

I look forward to learning more about these individuals and others like them in the future.
July 14,2025
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This is an extremely subversive book. The widely held myth is that invention is the driving force behind the modern world. It is believed that monkish scientists, secluded in tiny labs, are the ones who create our wealth and lifestyle. However, as this book vividly demonstrates, nothing could be further from the truth.

For instance, Robert Fulton didn't invent either the steam engine or the paddle wheel. But he was the first to initiate a working steamboat service on the Hudson River. The fact that his working model was developed while he was on holiday with another man's wife adds a spicy twist to the story. I don't remember this fact from my history books!

The key point is that it is innovation that enhances our world. It is people who apply ideas, usually someone else's ideas, in a practical manner. Modern conveniences were developed through a combination of serendipity, hard work, and naked greed. It isn't the love of "pure" science that compels men to work around the clock trying to figure out how to thread a needle. It is the desire to be the first in the market and make the most money.

Thomas Edison is regarded as America's greatest inventor. But he wasn't some saint living on a Himalayan mountaintop. His innovation was to systematize invention to generate a reliable stream of ideas that could be sold in the mass market. In other words, he wanted to make money. Apple has simply emulated him.

The subversive aspect is that this contradicts the entire premise behind government-enforced patents. We are told that we need patents to protect the nerdy scientist who is clueless about how the real world functions and requires government protection of the income streams from his inventions so that he will continue to produce science. Otherwise, he would neglect the test tubes in his small, damp lab. This story is false because no such "scientist" exists. Useful ideas don't stem from "pure" science. They come from people attempting to find practical solutions to real problems, most often with the aim of amassing Scrooge McDuck-size piles of money. All patents do is hinder the flow of ideas that are so essential for innovation to occur (it usually necessitates several people collaborating for the ideas to truly germinate), slow down improvements in our world, and keep lawyers occupied. In fact, the sewing machine industry nearly collapsed under a mountain of lawsuits and counter-lawsuits filed by the various "inventors" until they finally agreed to simultaneously drop all patent claims.

The book has some drawbacks. It meanders through some black lady's world (it's not clear what her innovation was). It also spends time on Barbie (she looks the way she does for a reason). And Ted Turner's story is interesting - his business skills are beyond doubt, but he feels the need to share where he was when he realized that CNN had completely defeated its competitors.

So, read this book. Discover the stories that don't conform to the predetermined historical narrative that came from my high school history textbook.
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