Book Notes

  Summary: The basic premise of the book, is that one should not believe opinions or forecasts of others, unless they have some “skin in the game.” Results are all that count–opinions and talk are worthless. It is so easy for people to spout utter nonsense, so unless they could potentially suffer consequences of being … Read more

  Summary: Nassim Nicholas Taleb’s Antifragile is about fragility and it’s converse, antifragility. In fragile systems the benefits are small and visible, and the the side effects are potentially severe and invisible. What Taleb calls the “antifragile” is one step beyond robust, as it benefits from adversity, uncertainty and stressors, just as human bones get … Read more

Inside Arthur Andersen: Shifting Values, Unexpected Consequences Susan Elaine Squires, Cynthia J. Smith, Lorna McDougall, William R. Yeack   Inside Arthur Andersen uncovers the roots of Andersen’s implosion, tracing its spectacular two-decade transformation from staid auditor to aggressive consulting firm-and the profound change in corporate culture that led to its self-destruction. The authors have spent … Read more

  Summary: Blaise Pascal’s Pensées were never intended to be read, much like Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations. They honestly reveal the private thoughts of great philosophers on the human condition, and they speak of how miserable people are. Pascal is a bit pessimistic, yet in the end more hopeful when he looks to Christ for ultimate … Read more