Tribes by Seth Godin
This is a book about leadership and community. It's inspirational and a quick read. It left me wanting to do more to connect others. Godin explained that people want connection, growth, and something new. He wrote that people want change. I disagree with Godin on this point. I've worked with many adult learners and I know that all people do not want change, some people may want change, but not all people. Nevertheless, I do agree with Godin's beliefs about human beings needing to belong. Godin suggested that one of the most powerful survival mechanisms of a human being is to be a part of a tribe, to be connected, and to contribute to and take from a group of like-minded people. Additionally, he explained that humans want to belong to many tribes and that if it is made easy and we have the tools, we'll join many. There are so many new technological tools that can help us lead tribes. Facebook, Twitter, Ning, and Meetup are just a few. He encourages all of us to step up and become leaders; to use the newest forms of technology to unite those with common interests.
The Wisdom of Crowds
by James Surowiecki
I'm reading this book because my superintendent has referenced it several times. It is probably more for the business world. Surowiecki suggested that chasing experts is a costly mistake. We should put together groups of people and ask them. He offers multiple vignettes chocked full of examples of how time and again, large groups of people are right. One example that stands out in my mind is from the famous TV show, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. When the audience is asked for an answer, it turns out they are right 91% of the time! Surowiecki gives examples in sports events, with Google, polls, and decision markets. He explained the value of diversity within a group and cascading. It's a good book and a definite must read if you are trying to encourage and foster collaboration in the workplace.
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