Book Review – A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future
**Originally published on www.proqc.com (6/3/08)
A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future. Daniel Pink. New York: Penguin Group, 2005. 275pp
One of the greatest sources of worthwhile reading is my former economics professor. Periodically, a book will arrive at my house with his latest recommendation. Having not failed in his ability to impress, A Whole New Mind definitely stands out above the rest. Going beyond the everyday business hype and hum drum inspirational model, Daniel Pink sends readers on a journey into a new way of thinking and learning.
Pink divides the book into two primary parts, with the first essentially an introduction and argument on how and why industry is moving away from left to right-brain thinking and into what he calls the Conceptual Age. A sound argument is positioned on three primary motives: abundance, Asia & automation. Basically, we live in a time of plenty where machines can do almost anything and any leftover knowledge work can be sourced in Asia for a dramatic cost savings.
Completing part one, I was convinced that we were in fact moving into a new age. And, I was a little unnerved about the value of my MBA as a commodity in this period. It appeared that I was going to have to adapt or fail miserably.
In part two of Whole New Mind, Pink lays out a pallet of skills to exercise and refine the right side of the brain. These skills, which he categorizes as senses, include design, story, symphony, empathy, play and meaning. A much quicker read, this section of the book incorporates basic descriptions of each “sense” and a portfolio of exercises and recommendations. The portfolios are fairly comprehensive considering the thin nature of the book, but it’s presented in a way that allows you to pick and choose based on your interests and the amount of time you have. As for me, I’ve still got the book parked by my computer and check out a recommended link every now and then when I need a break or have a few extra minutes. As a very left-brained individual to start, I’ve actually enjoyed challenging myself while at the same time increasing my marketability in this future world.
What Thomas Friedman cited as his favorite business book is actually worth the investment in time. Pink’s Whole New Mind is truly an experience that will get you thinking beyond the norm and into something progressive and dynamic that is evolving in front of us each and every day.
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