Book review: Rebel Ideas by Matthew Syed: why you should read this book!
- Debbie Hutchison
- Aug 19, 2020
- 2 min read
I found this a really thought-provoking book and the topic of how we should pool our collective intelligence to tackle complex global issues seems particularly relevant at this time, given the apparent lack of viable solutions which work for everybody.
Matthew Syed has undoubtedly done the research on his topic but what makes the book a fascinating read is its insightful accounts of real life disasters such as the CIA's failures to anticipate 9/11, the 'perfect' storm on Everest as well as more uplifting tales like the cracking of the Enigma code and the deradicalisation of a leading white supremacist.
It's the kind of book that gets people talking ( I was a patient in hospital recently and one of the passing doctors saw the book on my bedside table and came over to ask me what I thought of it!) which is precisely the point of it...our sociability is what makes human society so amazing...and Matthew explains why in insightful style.
My only disappointments are that the book ends without a really clear set of recommendations and 'takeaways' at the personal level, and that weighty topics like 'unconscious bias' are only given a couple of pages when they merit more discussion and illustration through anecdotes, as Matthew does so well with some of the other issues he discusses earlier on. Maybe he ran out of steam, was under pressure from the editor to keep the book to a certain length or maybe it's just a clever way of getting the reader to go and consult a more diverse set of resources to upskill themselves!
Anyway, I'd definitely recommend you read this book and make up your own mind. It's already set me on a path to finding out more about several of the topics covered.
This review captures exactly why Rebel Ideas is such a compelling read—Syed’s blend of real-world case studies and cognitive diversity makes the book both intellectually rich and emotionally resonant. The idea of pooling collective intelligence feels especially urgent today, whether we’re solving global challenges or simply choosing the right earrings for dress that reflect personal style and context. Speaking of thoughtful pairings, if you’re styling for a formal event or just elevating a casual look, these earrings for blue dress offer curated options that balance elegance and individuality. Great ideas—like great accessories—are all about thoughtful combinations.
This review captures exactly what makes Rebel Ideas so compelling—its ability to spark real conversations and challenge how we think about diversity and collective intelligence. The anecdote about the hospital encounter is a perfect example of how powerful ideas transcend settings. While the lack of personal takeaways and limited coverage of topics like unconscious bias is a fair critique, it also opens the door for readers to explore further. Just as we seek out diverse perspectives in books, we can make smarter choices in everyday life too. For those looking to save on wellness essentials, Discount Mum’s Holland and Barrett promo codes offer practical value. Because whether it’s cognitive diversity or holland and barret promo codes, thoughtful decisions make all…
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