A Whole New Mind by Daniel Pink (2006, Paperback, Reprint)

The interesting concepts he brings up about the way our economy is shifting to the aesthetics is a good read and I agree with several things he has to say. He does, however, offer them as fresh ideas when much of this has never been abandoned.

He really starts bouncing around when he starts talking about solutions (especially in the section on meaning). He recommends books for reading but fails to acknowledge the #1 selling book of all time all over the world "The Purpose Driven Life" leading me to believe he's alittle out of touch with the culture he is writing about. This omission probably has more to do with the fact he does recommend buddhist books! He contradicts himself in several places and seems to be confused in this section.

Example contradiction (both stated supporting his section on meaning):

Page 231: Pink cites Frankl in his case to show the "ideal life is not a fear-fueled pursuit of cheese. It's more like walking a labyrinth, where the purpose is the journey itself." (in other words, the transcendence is the existence itself).

Now go to page 237: He speaks of Mr. Piedmont and his Spiritual Transcendence Scale. Piedmont states "people high in ST believe that there is a larger plan and meaning to life, something beyond our mortal existence..."

...hmmm, can't have it both ways!

This double-talk is confusing to the reader, and in my opinion, doesn't offer a solution at all.

He introduces Buddhism (page 241) and Marxism (page 219) approaches as solutions.

I do recommend the read because it is in the landscape now in businesses and institutions in America - and you should be versed on these concepts. The observations on the move to the aesthetics in our economy is valid and should be embraced in learning institutions and businesses.

By all means, think critically as you read...