November 11, 2008
Gladwell on Outliers:
New York Magazine profiles prolific mind-focused science writer Malcom Gladwell and previews his upcoming book on the unpredictable factors that propel the super-successful to the top.
Gladwell writes incredibly compelling books about psychology and culture that have been wildly popular. The article mentions a multi-million dollar advance for his forthcoming book Outliers.
I have to say, I read his last book, Blink and enjoyed every page but didn't quite get the punchline. It seemed to be saying sometimes instant judgements can be better than considered judgements, and other times not, but I wanted to know when they are better.
However, Gladwell's books are as enjoyable as much for their eclecticism as his gripping narrative, and even as a collection of stories about interesting studies I found them eye-opening.
The New York Magazine discusses Gladwell and his work, and it's probably true to say that he's one of the most influential people in the public understanding of psychology, so he is always worth keeping tabs on.
Link to New York Magazine article 'Geek Pop Star'.
