When faced with complex problems we have all become accustomed to looking
to our leaders to set out a plan of action, to blaze a path to success.
In this ground-breaking book, Tim Harford shows us a new and inspiring
approach to solving the most pressing problems in our lives. Harford argues
that today’s challenges simply cannot be tackled with ready-made solutions and
expert opinion; the world has become far too unpredictable and profoundly
complex. Instead, we must adapt.
Deftly weaving together psychology, evolutionary biology, anthropology,
physics and economics, along with the compelling story of hard-won lessons
learned in the field, Harford makes a passionate case for the importance of
adaptive trial-and-error in tackling issues such as climate change, poverty and
the financial crisis. From a spaceport in the Mojave Desert to the street battles
of Iraq to a burning offshore drilling rig to everyday decisions in our business
and personal lives, this is a handbook for surviving – and prospering – in our
complex and ever-shifting world.