Rating: 
Summary: Eloquent Curiosity Amidst Uncertainties
Review: In their "Invitation to the Reader", the authors explain that they "strive to connect -- ourselves with you, you with each other, and all of us with the economic issues that define our times and our futures. Connect with us, and lob a grenade or two. Our conversation with each other is always respectful but not always polite." As they then explain, their book has five parts. "In the first, we outline our three themes [ie the growing efficiency of financial and real markets, the primacy of human capital, and the obsolescence of social capital] and the economic forces that are driving them. Then, in Parts II through IV, we look at how the themes play out for individuals, businesses, and society. We close with twenty "Perfect Futures" on the horizon (Part V)." As the authors already understand, the speed of change resembles a Blur but the same word can be used to describe the confusion which often results from high-speed change.The authors seem to have several separate but related objectives, most of which are indicated in the brief excerpt just quoted. First, to explain certain themes as well as the economic forces which drive them. These themes are subject to change or at least to revision; also, the forces which now drive them may be replaced by others. Some of the authors' best thinking is found in Parts II through IV. Once again, in a Blur, the specifics in their analyses of individuals, businesses, and society may change but, in my opinion, the rationale for analysis which they follow will remain sound. With regard to Part V, Horizons", it is likely (if not certain) that several of the "Twenty Perfect Futures" will never materialize. But, again my opinion, that is not the salient point. Rather, the authors correctly insist that we must constantly formulate "perfect futures" in whatever number we prefer. Peter Schwartz and others have stressed the importance of mastering what Schwartz calls "the art of the long view." Presumably Davis and Meyer agree. If after reading this book you think other themes driven by other forces are more important, fine. Presumably you will be as well-prepared to support your selections as Davis and Meyer are to support theirs. Also, if after reading this book, you have entirely different opinions about the nature and extent of interrelationships between and among individuals, businesses, and society, fine. (My personal preference is to focus on "organizations" which include but are not limited to companies. Also, I have some different perspectives on "society", believing that much closer attention should be given to elements such as symbol and ritual.) As for "perfect futures", Davis and Meyer select 20. Given your own circumstances, it may make much more sense to formulate and then extrapolate (with "the art of the long view") more or fewer. I rate this book so highly because it poses so many important questions, and, because the answers provided are both thoughtful and thought-provoking. Do I totally agree with Davis and Meyer? Certainly not, as already indicated, but I am grateful to them for stimulating me to think about the issues they raise. For less than the cost of dinner in a world-class restaurant, you can feed your brain (and your organization) with ideas provided by world-class thinkers. Judge for yourself which ideas have value to you as all of us proceed into the Blur which awaits.
Rating: 
Summary: Close to fiction
Review: In their earlier book "Blur" Davis and Meyer had blurred the difference between many things ( the difference between product and service for example ) . In this book the difference between fiction and reality gets blurred ! The common thread that runs across all chapters is - Connectivity, Speed and Intangibles, and it is certainly advisable to read "Blur" before reading this book. I find it very difficult to visualize many events that are forecast in this book. The main effects of IT (Information Technology) in the new economy seem to be the phenomenal increase in the ratio between I (Intangibles) and T (Tangibles) ; the redistribution of wealth wherein the individuals manage their own risks; securitization of talent ; and virtually trade in everything thereby creating new markets and opportunities. A word of caution. Check your vision both before and after reading this book!
Rating: 
Summary: Light Reading
Review: This book is interesting but the authors suggest that the Marx theory of "....taking property out of private hands and giving it to the state........But the corruption of the theory didn't necessarily disprove the underlying thinking." This is suprisingly shallow thinking when the failure of communism is so rampant worldwide. The underlying thinking of Marx is diaster. The social planning of Daivs and Meyer is evident in thier "saftey nets" and calls for socialized medicine. I expected more from this book.
Rating:
Summary: Thought provoking? worth the read
Review: This book was required reading for one of my doctoral classes, it raises some interesting thoughts and opinions. It is worth the time to read it regardless of whether you agree with the authors' conclusions. It brings to light many of the changes that should (or have) come along with our new connected world and economy. Their ideas on the individual were especially thought provoking - their section on society was interesting despite the fact that I frequently disagreed with their conclusions. Again - definitely worth the time to read.
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