The book provides real examples of people who identified a problem, then set about to improve conditions that had come to be accepted by social inertia. His opening example, that of Fabio Ruiz of Palmares, demonstrates how effective one person can be. Ruiz, living in a depressed area in Brazil, discovered how greatly something most of us take for granted, electrical power, could influence a local economy. Ruiz observed the condition of the rice farmers in the state. A steady supply of water would allow growth of successful crops.
This book may be a wonderful resource for people who are not yet familiar with social entrepreneurship or the amazing work that has been done by individuals and organizations worldwide in the last 30 years. I appreciate the time Bornstein spent describing historical figures, demonstrating that social entrepreneurship is nothing new; it is simply finally getting the attention it deserves. Although the resource list is well-balanced, and there are some nuggets of discussion of what it takes to be successful in social entrepreneurship, Bornstein falls short of providing insight for individuals who are wondering whether they have what it takes to be a social entrepreneur.
It's a great book, very accessible with stories that travel a quick loop around the globe. It shows how you can make a difference in a community even if you have nothing,
Stories about people who have changed world and analysis of common trends of these social entrepreneurs.
This book includes more than twenty different stories of personal sacrifice and courage and most all of the stories are inspiring and memorable. The range of social activism is pretty wide in this book, even though improving health seems to be one of the primary concerns of a large percentage of these social entrepreneurs.
This book gives both the inspiration and the tools for those of us already working to make change become better leaders and advocates for our cause.
David Bornstein's book How to Change the World is worth reading if you
a) prefer action instead of stagnancy
b) prefer good solutions instead of persisting problems
c) prefer justice and opportunity instead of poverty and neglect,
d) prefer good writing, period.
1) Many people are questioning their ability to create change. No matter what your political leanings, it is easy to feel far from positions of power and authority. These profiles demonstrate that there is no stopping the power of a good idea in the hands of a passionate individual.
2) Many people question the meaning and richness of their lives and careers. For people who are looking for a more rewarding and fulfilling sector, there is endless opportunity in being or supporting a social entrepreneur.
The book has several good stories about good things going on in the world. It's mostly a collection of anectodal items on people in different countries and the challenges they faces.The book is a great study of characteristics that shape a person to become a leader in a national or regional social justice movement. It is quite interestign how people from separate worlds and cultures have such similar traits.
It is very thorough in both describing how various "social entrepreneurs" from around the world have succeeded in realizing their dreams to make the world a more liveable place and in laying specific guidelines for what it takes to become a successful social entrepreneur. He also alternates chapters from specific case studies to more general and practical tips on what one needs to do to succeed, so making it all the more interesting. The next chapter would answer a lot of those questions..
How To Change The World spotlights organizations, people, and philosophies all dedicated to making the world a better place. A scattering of black-and-white photographs adds a visual touch to a supremely upbeat and uplifting look at the positive changes that can be brought to humanity as a whole.
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