In 'Prosperity', Colin P. Mayer challenges conventional notions of corporate success and profit-driven economies. He presents a visionary approach that prioritizes the long-term benefits for society, the environment, and businesses themselves. Mayer explores how companies can create real value beyond mere financial gain, advocating for a shift in corporate purpose and governance. Through compelling examples and thought-provoking insights, he argues that true prosperity is achievable through responsible and sustainable practices. This book invites readers to rethink what it means to thrive in today's world.
By Colin P. Mayer
Published: 2018
""True prosperity is not merely about wealth accumulation; it encompasses the well-being of society and the sustainability of our planet.""
What is business for? On day one of a business course, students learn that the purpose of business is maximizing shareholder profit. This single idea pervades thinking and teaching about business around the world - but it is fundamentally wrong, according to the author of this book. This idea has had disastrous and damaging consequences for economies, the environment, politics, and societies. In this book, the author challenges the fundamentals of business thinking by proposing a new agenda for establishing the corporation as a force for promoting economic and social wellbeing in its fullest sense - for customers and communities. The author presents a prescription for improving corporations, their ownership, governance, finance, and regulation. Drawing insights from business, law, economics, science, philosophy, and history, the author demonstrates how the corporation can realize its full potential to contribute to the economic and social wellbeing of the many, not just the few.
Colin P. Mayer is a distinguished author and professor known for his contributions to the fields of management and economics. He is the author of notable works such as 'Firm Commitment: Why the Corporation is failing us and how to restore trust in it' and 'Prosperity: Better Business Makes the Greater Good.' Mayer's writing is characterized by a blend of academic rigor and accessible language, making complex economic ideas understandable to a broad audience. His insights into corporate governance and the role of business in society are widely recognized, influencing both scholars and practitioners alike.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'I Love Capitalism!', billionaire Ken Langone shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to Wall Street success, emphasizing the American Dream's potential for anyone willing to work hard. With a candid narrative filled with personal anecdotes, he explores the transformative power of capitalism and the importance of giving back. Langone's passion for entrepreneurship and belief in self-made success are infectious, sparking a newfound appreciation for the system that built his fortune. The book acts as a rallying cry for those disillusioned with financial success, showing how determination and resilience can lead to incredible achievements. Are you ready to be motivated by a tale that celebrates risk-taking, rewards, and the spirit of innovation?
In 'Business as a System of Power', Robert A. Brady delves into the intricate relationship between business and political power in America. He posits that corporations are not merely economic entities, but powerful institutions that shape public policy and societal norms. Through a compelling blend of historical analysis and contemporary examples, Brady uncovers how business influences democracy and governance. Readers are invited to reflect on the ethical implications of this power dynamic. What does it mean for society when business interests can circumvent democratic processes?
In 'The Success Equation', Michael J. Mauboussin explores the intricate interplay between skill and luck in achieving success. He dismantles the myth of pure meritocracy, illustrating how randomness can shape outcomes in unexpected ways. Through engaging anecdotes and thought-provoking analysis, Mauboussin reveals insights on decision-making that challenge conventional wisdom. Readers will discover how to identify and cultivate true talent while understanding the limits of their control. This book invites you to rethink what it means to succeed—are you ready to redefine your own path?
'Planet Google' by Randall Stross explores the inner workings and cultural impact of one of the most influential companies in the world. Stross delves into the company's secretive operations, innovative technologies, and ambitious goals, revealing a corporate giant that reshapes how we access information. With insights into Google's unique corporate culture and its implications for society, the book raises questions about privacy, data ownership, and the future of information. Readers will be captivated by the contrast between Google's idealistic mission and the realities of its influence on daily life. This engaging narrative not only chronicles the rise of Google but also invites reflection on the digital era we inhabit.
In 'The Curse of the Mogul,' a trio of sharp economic minds dissect the turbulent saga of the media moguls who rose to power and fell from grace. With a mix of historical insight and incisive analysis, Knee, Greenwald, and Seave expose the flawed strategies that led to disastrous outcomes for these titans. Readers will uncover the inherent pitfalls of ambition and the temptations of the media landscape. This compelling narrative weaves together personal stories with economic theories, revealing the true cost of success. Can the lessons learned from these moguls’ downfalls shed light on the future of media management?
In 'Small Giants,' Bo Burlingham explores the fascinating world of successful companies that prioritize principles over profit. These organizations choose to stay small rather than chase growth at any cost, focusing instead on craftsmanship, customer relationships, and community impact. Through riveting case studies, readers discover the unique cultures and values that set these companies apart. What motivates these leaders to defy conventional business wisdom? Uncover the inspiring stories that challenge the notion that bigger is always better.
In 'Screw Business As Usual', Richard Branson challenges the traditional notion of business as a profit-driven enterprise. He argues for a new kind of capitalism that prioritizes social responsibility and ethical practices. Branson illuminates how businesses can thrive by genuinely contributing to the community and the environment. Through engaging anecdotes and bold insights, he inspires entrepreneurs to rethink success beyond mere financial gain. This provocative read invites you to explore how your business can create positive change in the world.
In 'Natural Capitalism', Lovins and Hawken challenge the conventional understanding of capitalism by integrating ecological sustainability with economic growth. They propose that businesses can thrive while restoring natural ecosystems, creating a harmonious balance between profit and the planet. Through compelling case studies, the authors illustrate how innovative companies are redefining value by investing in natural resources. This book not only presents a vision for a regenerative economy but also empowers readers with actionable strategies for change. Dive into a transformative approach that promises to reshape industries and inspire a movement towards sustainability.
Showing 8 of 29 similar books

Satya Nadella is the CEO of Microsoft, a position he has held since 2014, significantly transforming the company into a leader in cloud computing and artificial intelligence. Under his leadership, Microsoft's market value has surged, and the company has embraced a more open and innovative culture. Nadella is also the author of "Hit Refresh," a book that explores the principles and strategies behind Microsoft's cultural and technological renaissance. His writings provide insights into leadership, empathy, and the impact of technology on society. Nadella's vision and guidance have positioned Microsoft at the forefront of the tech industry, making him a highly influential figure in modern business and technology discourse.

Alex Lieberman is the co-founder and executive chairman of Morning Brew, a media company that delivers engaging business news. Under his leadership, Morning Brew has grown to reach millions of subscribers, becoming a significant player in modern business journalism. Lieberman is also known for his insightful commentary on entrepreneurship and media trends. His work has significantly influenced the way business news is consumed by younger audiences. Beyond Morning Brew, Lieberman frequently writes and speaks about the intersection of media and technology, further cementing his role as a thought leader in the industry.

Brandon Stanton is an American photographer and author, best known for creating Humans of New York, a photography project that shares the personal stories of everyday people. Through his portraits and interviews, Stanton captures the diverse experiences of people in New York City and around the world, offering intimate insights into their lives. Humans of New York has become a global phenomenon, with millions of followers on social media and several best-selling books. Stanton’s work has expanded beyond photography to include fundraising campaigns that have raised millions of dollars for individuals and charitable causes. His ability to connect with people and share their stories has made him one of the most impactful storytellers of his generation.

Marc Andreessen is an American entrepreneur, software engineer, and venture capitalist, best known for co-creating the Mosaic web browser, the first widely-used web browser, and co-founding Netscape. Andreessen is also the co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, one of Silicon Valley’s most prominent venture capital firms, where he invests in groundbreaking technology companies like Facebook, Airbnb, and Coinbase. He is a thought leader on the impact of technology and innovation, often sharing his views on the future of the internet and startups. His contributions to the development of the web and the tech ecosystem have made him one of the most influential figures in technology.

Ray Dalio is the founder of Bridgewater Associates, one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world. He is also the author of the bestselling book Principles, where he outlines his philosophy on life, leadership, and investing. Ray is renowned for his unique approach to transparency, radical truth, and thoughtful disagreement within organizations. His insights into economics and investing have made him one of the most influential figures in the financial world. Dalio continues to be a thought leader in business, economics, and philanthropy.

Alex Honnold is an American professional rock climber, best known for his free solo ascent of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a feat that was documented in the Oscar-winning film Free Solo. Honnold is renowned for his mental toughness, technical skill, and ability to climb without ropes or safety equipment. His accomplishments have made him a legend in the climbing world, and he continues to push the boundaries of the sport. Outside of climbing, Honnold is a philanthropist, founding the Honnold Foundation, which supports environmental sustainability projects, particularly in solar energy.

Drew Houston is an accomplished American entrepreneur best known for co-founding Dropbox, a widely-used cloud storage service, in 2007. As the CEO, he has led the company to serve millions of users worldwide and become a key player in the tech industry. Although not primarily known for literature, Houston has shared his entrepreneurial insights and experiences through various interviews and public speaking engagements, offering valuable lessons to aspiring business leaders. His work has significantly influenced the way people and organizations manage and share digital content. Houston's innovative vision continues to shape the future of cloud computing and digital collaboration.

Aaron Levie is the co-founder and CEO of Box, a cloud content management platform that revolutionized how businesses manage and collaborate on content. He launched Box in 2005 while still a college student, and the company rapidly grew into a leader in the cloud storage industry. Levie is known for his innovative, forward-thinking approach to enterprise software and for pushing the boundaries of digital transformation. Under his leadership, Box went public in 2015 and continues to evolve with new technologies and partnerships. He is a strong advocate for cloud-first business strategies and frequently shares his insights on the future of work and the digital workplace. Levie is also a prolific speaker and writer, often discussing technology's role in the modern economy. His energetic and witty personality has made him a popular figure in Silicon Valley and beyond.
Showing 8 of 24 related collections
“"True prosperity is not merely about wealth accumulation; it encompasses the well-being of society and the sustainability of our planet."”
Prosperity
By Colin P. Mayer
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.