Book Review - The World Is Flat

The World is Flat by Thomas Friedman: This is a popular best seller that comprehensively discusses globalization, how it affects different countries, companies and people, and what they can do about it. Friedman brings great perspectives from decades of journalist experience having visited the different countries, interviewed leaders worldwide on this topic and plenty of useful insights. The beginning itself catches attention comparing his expedition to Bangalore (India) with Columbus' expedition to look for India, and how he discovered the world was flat, while Columbus discovered the world was indeed round! Then he discusses the various factors like browsers, open source software, Google search that made the world flat by making it easier to share information and collaborate easily across the world. Having established the world is now flat, he provides insights on why Americans should be concerned, and what they can do about it. We may not agree with all his views and solutions proposed, but that shouldn't stop the reader from appreciating the insights gleaned from direct experience. It was interesting to note his new definition for Untouchables, how 11/9 (Berlin wall) was constructive and 9/11 (WTC) was destructive with respect to a flat world, how Dell PC has components coming from different parts of the world. To put it flat, it was well worth the several days it took to finish the 450 pages.