Prosperity Book Summary

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.""

ProsperityBook binding

Start Listening to Book Summary

0:000:00

Book Review of Prosperity

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.

Book Overview of Prosperity

About the Book Author

C

Colin P. Mayer

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.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Colin P. Mayer
Published
January 2018
Publisher
Oxford University Press, USA
ISBN
0198824009
Language
English
Pages
286
Genres
Social Justice MovementsSustainable InvestingCorporate StrategyBusiness and Economics

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

Good to GreatBook binding

Good to Great Book Summary

In 'Good to Great', Jim Collins explores what it takes for companies to surpass mediocrity and achieve enduring greatness. Through rigorous research, he identifies key principles that distinguish successful businesses from their less successful counterparts. The book introduces the concept of the "Hedgehog Concept" — a simple, yet profound idea that lies at the heart of each great organization's success. Readers will be fascinated by the surprising findings on leadership, discipline, and cultural alignment that drive greatness. This insightful guide challenges conventional wisdom and offers transformative lessons that can be applied to any endeavor.

Good to Great
Jim Collins
The Everything StoreBook binding

The Everything Store Book Summary

In "The Everything Store," Brad Stone takes readers on an enthralling journey through the rise of Amazon and its enigmatic founder, Jeff Bezos. The book unveils the audacious vision that transformed a humble online bookstore into a global retail powerhouse. Through fascinating anecdotes and behind-the-scenes insights, Stone reveals the fierce ambition and relentless innovation that drive Bezos and his groundbreaking company. As the narrative unfolds, readers will discover the challenges and ethical dilemmas faced by Amazon in its quest for dominance. This gripping account will leave you questioning the true cost of convenience in our modern world.

The Everything Store
Brad Stone
Blue Ocean ShiftBook binding

Blue Ocean Shift Book Summary

In "Blue Ocean Shift," W. Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne unveil a groundbreaking strategy for businesses to escape the fierce competition of saturated markets. They introduce the concept of creating "blue oceans"—untapped markets ripe for innovation and growth. Through compelling case studies and practical tools, the authors guide readers on how to shift from a crowded space to a serene ocean of opportunity. This transformative approach empowers organizations to reimagine their future, fostering creativity and collaboration. Dive into this essential read and discover how to chart your own course to success in uncharted waters!

Blue Ocean Shift
W. Chan Kim, Renee Mauborgne
Steal Like an ArtistBook binding

Steal Like an Artist Book Summary

In 'Steal Like an Artist,' Austin Kleon unveils the unconventional art of borrowing ideas, encouraging readers to embrace creativity by stealing from the world around them. He argues that all creativity is derived from influence, and shares ten transformative principles to unlock your creative potential. Through witty anecdotes and practical advice, Kleon inspires you to find your own voice while respecting the influences that shape you. This isn't just a book for artists; it's a manifesto for anyone seeking to break free from the confines of originality. Discover how to turn your unique experiences into a masterpiece by learning to remix and reinvent!

Steal Like an Artist
Austin Kleon
Built to LastBook binding

Built to Last Book Summary

In 'Built to Last,' Jim Collins and Jerry I. Porras unveil the secrets behind the enduring success of visionary companies. Through thorough research and compelling anecdotes, they identify key characteristics that distinguish these organizations from their competitors. The authors challenge traditional business thinking and reveal how a solid foundation of core values can drive long-term profitability and resilience. Readers are invited to explore how these principles can be applied to both businesses and personal endeavors. Prepare to rethink everything you know about entrepreneurial longevity!

Built to Last
Jim Collins, Jerry I. Porras
I Love Capitalism!Book binding

I Love Capitalism! Book Summary

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?

I Love Capitalism!
Ken Langone
The DipBook binding

The Dip Book Summary

In 'The Dip', Seth Godin explores the critical moments of struggle that can make or break our paths to success. He argues that most people quit when the going gets tough, but those who endure these challenging phases often find great rewards. Godin reveals how to identify the dips worth pushing through and when to strategically quit to save time and energy. This book challenges conventional wisdom about persistence and encourages readers to focus on their unique strengths. Prepare to rethink your approach to challenges and discover the power of strategic quitting!

The Dip
Seth Godin
The Wheel of TimeBook binding

The Wheel of Time Book Summary

No summary available

The Wheel of Time
Carlos Castaneda

Showing 8 of 29 similar books

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Similar Book Recommendations →

Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.

Business and LeadershipEducationSelf-Improvement
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

PoliticsMemoirs and BiographiesSuccess Stories and Life Lessons
Arianna Huffington's Book Recommendations

Arianna Huffington's Book Recommendations

Arianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.

Women Who LeadWellness WisdomProductivityLife Advice
Andrew Wilkinson's Book Recommendations

Andrew Wilkinson's Book Recommendations

Andrew Wilkinson is a distinguished author and entrepreneur, best known for his insightful business writings and contributions to the tech industry. He co-founded MetaLab, a prominent design agency that has shaped the user experience of major platforms like Slack and Coinbase. Wilkinson's entrepreneurial journey and his publications provide valuable perspectives on startup culture, innovation, and leadership. His writing, often featured in leading business magazines and his personal blog, has garnered a wide readership for its practical advice and engaging storytelling. Andrew continues to influence both literature and the business world with his unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking.

Business and LeadershipInspiring ReadsCreativity and Innovation
Marc Andreessen's Book Recommendations

Marc Andreessen's Book Recommendations

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.

Technology and FutureBusiness and Leadership
Andy Budd's Book Recommendations

Andy Budd's Book Recommendations

Andy Budd is a renowned author and user experience (UX) designer, best known for his influential work in the field of web design. He co-authored "CSS Mastery: Advanced Web Standards Solutions," which has become a seminal text for web developers worldwide. As a founding partner of the consulting firm Clearleft, Budd has made significant contributions to advancing UX design practices. He is also a sought-after speaker at design conferences and an active advocate for the design community. Through his writing and leadership, Budd continues to shape the future of digital design.

Creativity and InnovationTechnology and Future
Keith Rabois's Book Recommendations

Keith Rabois's Book Recommendations

Keith Rabois is a prominent American entrepreneur, investor, and author known for his significant contributions to the tech industry and startup ecosystem. He played crucial roles in the early success of companies like PayPal, LinkedIn, Square, and Yelp, earning a reputation as a skilled operator and strategic thinker. As a partner at Founders Fund and later at Khosla Ventures, Rabois has invested in and advised numerous successful startups. In addition to his business ventures, he has written insightful articles and essays on technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation, contributing to the broader discourse on these subjects. Rabois continues to influence the tech world with his strategic insights and thought leadership.

Business and LeadershipTechnology and FutureSuccess Stories and Life Lessons
Aaron Levie's Book Recommendations

Aaron Levie's Book Recommendations

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.

Business and LeadershipTechnology and Future

Showing 8 of 15 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

Frequently Asked Questions