Reddit meter
Throwing Rocks at the Google Bus
304 pages, 2017
When protesters shattered the windows of a bus carrying Google employees to work, their anger may have been justifiable, but it was misdirected. The true conflict of our age isn’t between the unemployed and the digital elite, or even the 99 percent and the 1 percent. Rather, a tornado of technological improvements has spun our economic program out of control, and humanity as a whole—the protesters and the Google employees, as well as the shareholders and the executives—are all trapped by the consequences. It’s time to optimize our economy for the human beings it’s supposed to be serving.
In this groundbreaking book, acclaimed media scholar and author Douglas Rushkoff tell us how to combine the best of human nature with the best of modern technology. Tying together disparate threads—big data, the rise of robots and AI, the increasing participation of algorithms in stock market trading, the gig economy, and the collapse of the eurozone—Rushkoff provides a critical vocabulary for our economic moment and a nuanced portrait of humans and commerce at a critical crossroads.
In Throwing Rocks at the Google Bus, Douglas Rushkoff explores the idea that our current economic system, which prioritizes constant growth, is not sustainable. He suggests that this obsession with growth can lead to negative consequences, such as income inequality and environmental damage. It's worth taking a look at how this concept applies to your own life and business.
Rushkoff digs into the impact of the digital economy on our society. He argues that while technology has the potential to democratize wealth and power, it often ends up concentrating these resources in the hands of a few. This is a thought-provoking perspective that might make you see the digital world in a new light.
One of the key takeaways from the book is the need to rethink how we define and measure value. Rushkoff suggests that we should move away from a purely monetary definition of value, and instead consider other factors like social and environmental impact. This could be a game-changer in how you approach your personal and professional life.
Rushkoff encourages readers to explore the power of local economies. He believes that by supporting local businesses and fostering community connections, we can create a more sustainable and equitable economic system. This is a great reminder to check out the local businesses in your area and see how you can support them.
In Throwing Rocks at the Google Bus, the author makes a compelling case for the need for economic change. He argues that our current system is not only unfair, but also unstable. If you're interested in economic issues, you'll find plenty of food for thought in this book.
Quotes 3
Rushkoff's book is a powerful call to arms for a more humane digital future.
Arianna Huffington - Huffington Post co-founderRushkoff's Throwing Rocks at the Google Bus is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the true nature of the digital economy.
Tim O'Reilly - O'Reilly Media founderRushkoff's book is a brilliant, cogent, and radical critique of our current economic system.
Clay Shirky - NYU professorRecommendations
1
Throwing Rocks at the Google Bus found in libraries
1Best Business Books
Are you starting your own business? These Best Business Books will help you reach for the stars.