The Seventh Sense: Power, Fortune and Survival in the Age of Networks the new book by Joshua Cooper Ramo was presented by the author at a recent Dallas World Affairs Council event on a rainy evening in downtown Dallas. Those that braved the thunderstorms were in for a real treat. Cooper-Ramo is Vice Chairman and Co-CEO of Kissinger Associates, adviser to CEOs, Politicians and on a number of notable corporate boards. Mr. Ramo has a unique ability in recognizing patterns and relationships of seemingly disparate events and envisioning where those trends will lead us into the future.
Mr. Cooper-Ramo has spent much time in China (living as close to a national as possible –keeping company with locals and speaking fluent Mandarin). He has witnessed, firsthand the ascension of China’s economic prowess and the dynamism of that economy. His new book is a very interesting as it presents a new way of looking at the world. A world where terrorism, mass refugee migrations, unbelievable technological and medical advances and whole new industries look just like chaotic events. Mr. Cooper-Ramo draws parallels and explains what he believes is the secret to power and fortune in the coming age. That secret power lies in understanding how networks function and the part they are playing in our changing economy, our geo-political structures and societal values.
Well worth the read and kudos to the Dallas World Affairs Council for yet another informative and engaging event.
Malcom Gladwell was recently quoted “The next president needs to read the Seventh Sense, starting on the morning of November 9th. Joshua Ramo’s latest book is a fascinating guide to the way the world is changing.” The book is an important read not only for political leaders but for those of us working in Technology. The Internet of Things, Smart Cities and other Smart technologies will be part of the disruption that Cooper-Ramos discusses in his book.