Why you should examine your views in times of crisis.

Books that I’m reading to help reexamine my views.

To create change, we have to reexamine our own views and actions in light of a pain that is deeply felt but too often ignored.  ~ Tim Cook, CEO of Apple

The need to “reexamine our own views” are probably some of the most insightful words spoken by a corporate executive in response to the latest tragedy.

I’ve been reading a lot of books written by professional economists this year. Many of them are writing about the underlying issues in America, providing countless examples of how corporate interests are influencing political leaders and prescribing the changes needed to address the consolidation of power.

The books and ideas will likely challenge your current views because corporate money and interests are reportedly influencing school curriculums too.

Books

If your economic views are informed by Milton Friedman’s theories, these books will definitely challenge your views:

1/ The Value of Everything by Mariana Mazzucato 

The book may challenge your views about who creates value versus who realizes the rewards. It also does a good job of introducing the national accounting system and the impact of privatization on Gross Domestic Product [GDP]. Both of which are relevant to the US/China power struggle and the financial impact of Covid19.

2/ Arguing with Zombies by Paul Krugman

The book may challenge your views on all the underlying issues such as healthcare, social security, housing and tax reform. It also does a good job of addressing stimulus funding and the deficit which is applicable to the Covid19 pandemic and financial crisis.

3/ The System by Robert Reich

The book may challenge your views of some prominent corporate leaders particularly of those in the finance industry. It does a good job of identifying the problem [power consolidation as a function of wealth consolidation] rather than just pointing to all the symptoms [underlying issues].

Time for Change

Regardless of what the stock market is doing, we are in a full on crisis. With active public health issues, financial issues and now social issues, it’s time for bigger and broader changes. 

It’s hard to look at systems and processes objectively when you might be negatively impacted by a change or if you fear retaliation. I understand.

But now more than ever, is a time for leaders to be honest about what’s working and what’s not working so that we can chart a new path forward that serves everyone better. That’s the heart of innovation and America.