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The Wisdom Of Crowds

Why the Many are Smarter than the Few and How Collective Wisdom Shapes Business, Economics, Society and Nations
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( 24,776 ratings, 859 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Wisdom of Crowds by James Surowiecki explores the compelling idea that large groups, even when comprised of individuals who are not experts, make better decisions than small groups of specialists. Drawing from psychology, economics, statistics, and history, Surowiecki examines how collective intelligence operates across business, economics, and society. The book demystifies complex topics such as pricing, the nature of money, corporations, and advertising, offering clear insights into how economies and markets function in real life.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book is ideal for readers interested in economics, business, psychology, and social science, particularly those curious about collective decision-making and market dynamics. It suits both general readers and professionals looking for insightful perspectives on how groups influence society and economy.

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* Subtitle: 'Why the Many are Smarter than the Few and How Collective Wisdom Shapes Business, Economics, Society and Nations'.

* * Review round-up coverage anticipated across the national press * Submitted for trade promotions * Reading copies available

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

In this landmark work, New Yorker columnist James Surowiecki explores a seemingly counter-intuitive idea that has profound implications. Decisions taken by a large group, even if the individuals within the group aren't smart, are always better than decisions made by small numbers of 'experts'.

This seemingly simple notion has endless and major ramifications for how businesses operate, how knowledge is advanced, how economies are (or should be) organised, and how nation-states fare. With great erudition, Surowiecki ranges across the disciplines of psychology, economics, statistics, and history to show just how this principle operates in the real world.

Along the way, Surowiecki asks a number of intriguing questions about a subject few of us actually understandโ€”economics. What are prices? How does money work? Why do we have corporations? Does advertising work? His answers, rendered in a delightfully clear prose, demystify daunting prospects.

As Surowiecki writes: 'The hero of this book is, in a curious sense, an idea, a hero whose story ends up shedding dramatic new light on the landscapes of business, politics, and society'.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The book is praised for its bright and lucid prose, combining rigorous thought with entertaining examples, making complex subjects accessible and engaging. Reviewers from the Sunday Times, Financial Times, and Herald commend Surowiecki's ability to make a convincing and provocative case. Malcolm Gladwell calls it "dazzling" and "the most brilliant book on business, society and everyday life" he has read in years. GQ highlights it as a stylish, offbeat counterpoint to traditional expert opinions.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780349116051

Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 03 March 2005

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Abacus

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 22.0mm

Width: 126.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 260g

Pages: 320

About the Author

James Surowiecki is a columnist for the NEW YORKER. This is his first book.

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