An Evolutionary Perspective on How The Economy Works And Its Consequences for Business and Society.
Over 6.4 billion people participate in a $36.5 trillion global economy designed, and overseen, by no one. How did this marvel of self-organised complexity evolve? How is wealth created within this system? And how can wealth be increased for the benefit of individuals, businesses, and society? In 'The Origin Of Wealth', Eric D. Beinhocker argues that modern science provides a radical perspective on these age-old questions, with far-reaching implications. According to Beinhocker, wealth creation is the product of a simple but profoundly powerful evolutionary formula: differentiate, select, and amplify. In this view, the economy is a 'complex adaptive system' in which physical technologies, social technologies, and business designs continuously interact to create novel products, new ideas, and increasing wealth. Taking readers on an entertaining journey through economic history, from the Stone Age to the modern economy, Beinhocker explores how 'complexity economics' provides provocative insights on issues ranging from creating adaptive organisations, to the evolutionary workings of stock markets, to new perspectives on government policies. A landmark book that shatters conventional economic theory, 'The Origin Of Wealth' will rewire our thinking about how we came to be here - and where we are going.
