The Rational Optimist: How Prosperity Evolves

Why I recommend it

Ridley looks at progress through the exchange of ideas and knowledge. Even ordinary products depend on more people knowing more things than any one person could.

What stayed with me

Ideas develop through people sharing and combining what they know. The lone-genius story misses much of that work.

Who it’s useful for

Readers interested in innovation, trade, and economic history.

A tension or limitation

His optimism can underplay inequality and environmental costs. It’s worth asking who benefits and who pays.