Change: How to Make Big Things Happen

The book "Change" by Professor Damon Centola is a guide to effecting change in individual lives, businesses, societies, and beyond. It challenges previous assumptions about how change works and presents a new science for understanding what drives change, recognizing blind spots, and how to change the world around us.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 06 January 2022
Publisher: John Murray Press

A remarkable and important guide to effecting change in our individual lives, businesses, societies - and beyond

JONAH BERGER, bestselling author of Contagious, has written a groundbreaking book that explores the power of networks in driving social change. In this comprehensive guide, Berger delves into the mechanisms behind movements like the Arab Spring, Black Lives Matter, and the COVID-19 pandemic, and offers valuable insights into how we can harness the power of networks to create positive change in our world.

One of the key insights in Change is that beliefs and behaviors are not transmitted from person to person in the simple way that a virus is. The real story of social change is more complex and much more interesting. When we are exposed to a new idea, our social networks guide our responses in striking and surprising ways. Berger draws on deep-yet-accessible research and fascinating examples to present a paradigm-shifting new science for understanding what drives change, recognizing our blind spots, and how we can change the world around us.

One of the most exciting aspects of Change is its focus on the role of networks in driving social change. Berger argues that networks are not just a means of communication but are also powerful agents of change. He explains that networks can be used to spread ideas, build momentum, and mobilize people towards a common goal. By understanding the structure and dynamics of networks, we can develop strategies to influence and shape the outcomes of social movements.

Another important theme in Change is the role of leadership in driving social change. Berger argues that effective leaders are not just charismatic figures but are also skilled at building and managing networks. He provides examples of leaders who have successfully used networks to create change, such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela. By understanding the role of leadership in networks, we can develop strategies to support and empower leaders who are working towards social change.

Change also offers valuable insights into the challenges and barriers to social change. Berger identifies several factors that can hinder the spread of ideas and the mobilization of people, such as political polarization, implicit bias, and cultural resistance. He provides strategies for overcoming these barriers, such as building bridges across different communities, promoting empathy and understanding, and using technology to create new forms of communication and collaboration.

In conclusion, Change is a groundbreaking book that offers valuable insights into the power of networks in driving social change. By understanding the mechanisms behind movements like the Arab Spring, Black Lives Matter, and the COVID-19 pandemic, and by developing strategies for harnessing the power of networks, we can create a more just and equitable world. Professor Damon Centola's research across areas as disparate as voting, health, technology, and finance has highlighted powerful and highly effective new ways to ensure lasting change. This book is a must-read for anyone who is interested in effecting positive change in their individual lives, businesses, societies, and beyond.

Weight: 244g
Dimension: 126 x 197 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529373387