Outliers, by Malcolm Gladwell

I just finished the latest Malcolm Gladwell book, "Outliers" and as with other MG books I very much enjoyed reading it. Gladwell has such a refreshing writing style and he certainly brings forward unusual thoughts and information. His theory about why southeast asian's are better at math than others is a very thought-provoking theory, basically having to do with the structure of numbers in the languages as well as attributing to the work ethic from the agricultural history of rice paddy farming.

That and other topics in the book were uncomfortable reading at times since it seemed bordering on racial/ethnic stereotyping but as usual Gladwell is well resourced and well thought-through. He also provides a detail of his ethnic background including Jamaican heritage and racial blending and this certainly lends credibility and sensitivity to the treatment of this subject.
As with other Gladwell books, Outliers doesn't offer easy and quick take-away's for everyday life. His stuff needs a little soak or percolation time to understand and incorporate into one's world view. As with Tipping Point and Blink, though, his theories and explanations are very capable of changing the way we think about things that are we think are very solid within that world view.

I recommend "Outliers" as required reading if you are seeking to expand your mind. See the side-panel Amazon link if you are wanting to run out (well, not run out but click through) to purchase the book. I get such a trivial amount from any transaction generated that way it is more a public service than a profiteering venture).

Enjoy that it is Friday and enjoy the weekend.

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