The Evolution of Revolutions: How We Create, Shape, and React to Change

by Patrick J. Howie

How can entrepreneurs predict what the next revolution will be? How does a new idea, product, or service spread throughout a social system to spark "the next big thing"?

In this unique blend of historical analysis and how-to knowledge, leading researcher and economist Patrick J. Howie provides clear guidance on how to identify and foster innovations that will lead to revolutions. Based on analysis of more than two-dozen revolutions in business, sports, science, and politics, he offers a wide-ranging understanding of the revolutionary process.

What separates a fad from a true revolution? The author's illustrative case studies demonstrate that in order for an innovation to successfully create a revolution, it must pass through three stages: resistance, clarification, and elaboration. True revolutions result from a long evolutionary development process and an extensive adoption and expansion of the initial innovation.

Howie—who holds a patent for analyzing the effectiveness of marketing strategies—describes important methods that can be used to create innovations as well as recognize and capitalize on emerging revolutions. In the spirit of The Tipping Point, Howie contends that change and revolution occur constantly and affect even the smallest things. In any industry today, there are multiple revolutions occurring. By understanding the process of innovation and how innovations throughout history have sparked lasting revolution, readers will learn how to create revolutions of their own.

The Evolution of Revolutions offers a wealth of research and sound methodology for navigating today's dynamic business environment, where change is the only constant.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING:

"Patrick Howie's book artfully and engagingly tackles arguably the most important force underpinning our individual and collective well being, namely the process of innovation. By weaving together an analysis of a wide range of innovations in the sciences, economics, and political history, he is able to provide key insights into how and why some innovations succeed and others do not. The story Howie tells is both educational and entertaining." —Mark Zandi, chief economist of Moody's Economy.com

"What separates a fad from a true revolution? This book answers many important questions about how people act and react to change. It combines the latest research in economics, psychology, and sociology to provide guidance on fostering innovations and creating revolutions. It's a must read for anyone trying to get ahead in these challenging and dynamic times." —Rob McGovern, founder of CareerBuilder and Jobfox

"I look to invest in individuals who have the ability to see around the corner and to rapidly adapt in a dynamic marketplace. In The Evolution of Revolutions, Patrick Howie provides a clear and compelling blueprint for those trying to create change, making it a must read for any entrepreneur." —Chuck Newhall, co-founder New Enterprise Associates, the world's largest venture capital firm

"The Evolution of Revolutions is compelling and applicable to all disciplines, fields, businesses, and innovations. Howie's treatise is on target and compelling. A crisp and clear guide that parses fads from sustaining innovations. The historical precedents and vivid contemporary examples are riveting, and resonate as proof positive. A must read and an awakening in today's changing and challenging environment." —Dr. Phil Gerbino, president, University of the Sciences in Philadelphia

"Patrick Howie has constructed a fascinating book about innovation. Being involved in both the business of innovation (developing and commercializing green technologies), and in the teaching of innovative ideas for environmental policy, I use and teach concepts in innovation. Patrick's book opened my eyes to some new ideas and concepts, and the history lesson was intriguing. I look forward to using some of the ideas in motivating investors and users for emerging green technologies, and challenging my students to create new and revolutionary approaches to solving problems." —Dr. Mark Allen Bernstein, managing director, USC Energy Institute, professor of practice, political science, University of Southern California

"The innovation process is complicated and dynamic. By synthesizing advances in disparate disciplines, The Evolution of Revolutions provides much needed insight into how innovations, even complex scientific and technological innovations, must adapt to survive this process. This is an important and insightful work for anyone interested in creating change." —Dr James Winebrake, chair, professor of science and technology policy, Rochester Institute of Technology

262 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 1, 2011

Reviews

[Es Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Insightful look into the dynamics of revolutionary ideas.