How Innovation Works
In 'How Innovation Works', Matt Ridley explores the fascinating mechanics behind human ingenuity, revealing that innovation is a spontaneous process driven by trial and error rather than a linear path. He draws on captivating historical examples and contemporary case studies to illustrate how innovation thrives in environments that embrace failure and collaboration. Ridley challenges the conventional understanding of innovation, suggesting that it is often the result of collective effort rather than individual brilliance. As he delves into the implications of innovation for society and the economy, readers are left pondering how the next great breakthrough could be just around the corner. This eye-opening book invites you to reconsider the sources of change and creativity in our rapidly evolving world.
By Matt Ridley
Published: 2020
"Innovation is not the result of a few geniuses; it is the product of countless ordinary people working together, inspired by necessity and driven by curiosity."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
"Originally published as How Innovation works: serendipity, energy and saving of time in Great Britain in 2020 by 4th Estate, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers."--Title page verso.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from How Innovation Works
About the Author
Matt Ridley
Matt Ridley is a British author, journalist, and businessman known for his work on science, economics, and the environment. He has written several notable books, including 'Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23 Chapters', 'The Rational Optimist: How Prosperity Evolves', and 'How Innovation Works: And Why It Flourishes in Freedom'. Ridley's writing style is characterized by clarity, wit, and a knack for communicating complex scientific ideas to a general audience, often emphasizing the role of human ingenuity in shaping the world. He has contributed to various prestigious publications and is a prominent speaker on issues related to science and policy.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Matt Ridley
- Published
- May 2020
- Publisher
- Harper
- ISBN
- 0062916599
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 416
- Genres
- Business and EconomicsEntrepreneurshipTechnology
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
The Hard Thing About Hard Things
Ben Horowitz
Bad Blood
John Carreyrou
The Phoenix Project
Gene Kim, Kevin Behr, George Spafford
Makers
Chris Anderson
Zero to One
Peter Thiel, Blake Masters
100 Side Hustles
Chris Guillebeau
Company of One
Paul Jarvis
Anything You Want
Derek Sivers
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Peter F. Drucker
The Founders
Jimmy Soni
The Monk and the Riddle
Randy Komisar, Kent L. Lineback
The New New Thing: A Silicon Valley Story
Michael Lewis
Crossing the Chasm
Geoffrey A. Moore
Building on Bedrock
Derek Lidow
Do Cool Sh*t
Miki Agrawal
Ctrl Alt Delete
Mitch Joel
Abundance
Steven Kotler, Peter H. Diamandis
The Upstarts
Brad Stone
Connecting the Dots
John Chambers, Diane Brady
Medieval Technology and Social Change
Lynn White (Jr.)
Am I Being Too Subtle?
Sam Zell
Beyond the Prototype
Douglas Ferguson
Growth Hacker Marketing
Ryan Holiday
Startup Rising
Christopher Schröder
We Are the Nerds
Christine Lagorio-Chafkin
Uncanny Valley
Anna Wiener
Wild Ride
Adam Lashinsky
Average is Over
Tyler Cowen
Alibaba
Duncan Clark
Beyond Entrepreneurship
James Charles Collins, William C. Lazier
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.
Book Collections you might like →
Alex Lieberman's Book Recommendations
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.
View Collection
David Heinemeier Hansson's Book Recommendations
David Heinemeier Hansson, also known as DHH, is a Danish programmer, entrepreneur, and author, best known as the creator of Ruby on Rails, a popular web application framework. Heinemeier Hansson is also a partner at Basecamp, a project management and collaboration software company he co-founded. His contributions to software development have earned him widespread recognition, with Ruby on Rails being used by thousands of developers and companies worldwide. Heinemeier Hansson is also a vocal advocate for remote work, simplicity in business, and sustainable work practices, ideas he explores in his bestselling books Rework and It Doesn’t Have to Be Crazy at Work. In addition to his work in tech, he is an accomplished race car driver, having competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Heinemeier Hansson’s approach to work-life balance and entrepreneurship has made him a thought leader in the tech community, where he continues to challenge traditional business practices and advocate for more human-centered approaches to work
View Collection
Alexis Ohanian's Book Recommendations
Alexis Ohanian is an American entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Reddit, one of the world’s most popular social news and discussion platforms. Ohanian is also a prominent advocate for open internet and net neutrality, and he has invested in numerous startups through his venture capital firm, Initialized Capital. In addition to his work in tech, Ohanian is involved in philanthropy, supporting causes related to women’s rights, education, and social justice. He is married to tennis star Serena Williams, and together they advocate for gender equality and inclusive leadership. Ohanian’s influence in the tech world and his commitment to social impact have made him a respected figure in both business and activism.
View Collection
Biz Stone's Book Recommendations
Biz Stone is an American entrepreneur, co-founder of Twitter, and a key figure in the development of social media. Stone helped launch Twitter in 2006, transforming the way people communicate and share information globally. He has also co-founded other companies, including Xanga, Blogger, and Medium, and is involved in various philanthropic efforts through The Biz and Livia Stone Foundation. Stone is known for his creative thinking and his belief in the power of technology to create positive change in the world. His work has left a lasting impact on digital communication and media innovation.
View Collection
Carl Icahn's Book Recommendations
Carl Icahn is a billionaire investor and activist shareholder known for taking controlling positions in companies to influence management and strategic direction. He has built a reputation as a corporate raider, often shaking up large corporations to unlock shareholder value. Icahn has been involved in numerous high-profile battles with companies like Apple, Dell, and Netflix. His firm, Icahn Enterprises, spans multiple industries, including energy, automotive, and real estate. Icahn is considered one of the most influential and successful investors of his generation.
View Collection
Alexey Moiseenkov's Book Recommendations
Alexey Moiseenkov is a Russian entrepreneur and tech innovator best known for creating Prisma, the groundbreaking mobile app that transforms photos into artworks using artificial intelligence. Though not primarily a literary figure, his work in AI and digital transformation has influenced contemporary discussions on the intersection of technology and art. Moiseenkov's contributions have been featured in various tech and innovation journals, highlighting his impact on modern digital culture. His work underscores the evolving narrative of creativity in the digital age, bridging the gap between artistic expression and technological advancement. Moiseenkov continues to inspire through his ongoing ventures in AI and entrepreneurship.
View Collection
Anu Hariharan's Book Recommendations
Anu Hariharan is a distinguished partner at Y Combinator's Continuity Fund, where she has been instrumental in scaling numerous startups into successful enterprises. With a strong background in economics and technology, she has become a respected voice in the venture capital community. Hariharan has also made significant contributions through her writing on startup growth and investment strategies, offering insightful analyses and practical advice to entrepreneurs. Her work is frequently featured in leading business publications, showcasing her expertise in the tech industry. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Hariharan is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the startup ecosystem.
View Collection
Leo Polovets's Book Recommendations
Leo Polovets is a prominent figure in the tech and venture capital world, known for his insightful writings on startups and software engineering. As a co-founder of Susa Ventures, he has significantly impacted the investment landscape by backing early-stage companies with innovative solutions. Polovets's blog and articles have garnered attention for their clarity and depth, providing valuable guidance to entrepreneurs and engineers alike. His expertise is grounded in his technical background, having previously worked as an early engineer at LinkedIn and Factual. Polovets continues to influence the industry through his thought leadership and strategic investments.
View Collection
Kevin Rose's Book Recommendations
Kevin Rose is a notable entrepreneur and technology investor, best known for founding Digg, a pioneering social news website that significantly influenced online content sharing. Although not primarily recognized for literary contributions, Rose has impacted digital media and online culture, which are recurring themes in contemporary literature on technology. His insights and experiences have been featured in various tech journals and books, enriching discussions on innovation and digital entrepreneurship. Rose also co-hosted the popular podcast "The Random Show" with Tim Ferriss, where he shares his thoughts on technology, health, and productivity. Through his ventures and public speaking, Rose continues to inspire narratives around the digital revolution and startup culture.
View Collection
Andrew Chen's Book Recommendations
Andrew Chen is a venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and thought leader in growth marketing, currently serving as a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz. Chen is known for his expertise in network effects, viral growth strategies, and marketplace dynamics, making him a sought-after advisor for startups looking to scale. Prior to joining Andreessen Horowitz, he worked in leadership roles at Uber, helping to grow the ride-sharing platform’s user base and develop key growth strategies. Chen is also a prolific writer, sharing his insights on growth, technology, and startups through his popular blog and newsletter, which has attracted a loyal following in the tech community. His work has helped shape how many startups approach user acquisition, retention, and product-market fit. As a venture capitalist, Chen focuses on early-stage companies in the consumer internet, SaaS, and marketplace sectors, and he has been involved in funding and advising several successful startups. His insights on technology and growth continue to influence both founders and investors alike.
View Collection
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.
View Collection
Daniel Ek's Book Recommendations
Daniel Ek is a Swedish entrepreneur and co-founder of Spotify, the world’s leading music streaming platform. Ek revolutionized the music industry by offering a legal, user-friendly alternative to piracy, and Spotify has since become the dominant player in the streaming market. Under his leadership, Spotify has expanded globally, offering access to millions of songs and podcasts while reshaping how artists distribute their work. Ek is known for his forward-thinking approach to technology and his commitment to evolving Spotify’s platform for both users and creators. He continues to lead Spotify as it explores new innovations in audio entertainment.
View Collection
Elon Musk's Book Recommendations
Elon Musk is an influential entrepreneur and innovator known for founding and leading several groundbreaking companies, including Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and The Boring Company. He has played a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles, space exploration, and renewable energy. Musk's vision extends to colonizing Mars and reducing the risk of human extinction through space travel. In addition to his technological contributions, he has co-authored the book "Spacex: Making Commercial Spaceflight a Reality," providing insights into his ambitious projects and vision for the future. Musk's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the trajectory of multiple industries.
View Collection
Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations
Alfred Lin is a venture capitalist and partner at Sequoia Capital, where he focuses on investments in consumer internet, enterprise, and mobile companies. Lin is known for his early investments in companies like Airbnb and DoorDash, helping them grow into major global brands. Before joining Sequoia, Lin was an executive at Zappos, where he worked closely with CEO Tony Hsieh to develop the company’s innovative culture and customer service model. Lin’s expertise in scaling businesses and his strategic vision have made him one of the most respected venture capitalists in Silicon Valley.
View Collection
Nick Molnar's Book Recommendations
Nick Molnar is the co-founder of Afterpay, a buy-now-pay-later fintech company that revolutionized consumer payments. Molnar, originally from Australia, helped Afterpay become a global phenomenon, offering shoppers an alternative to traditional credit. He has been instrumental in leading Afterpay's expansion into major markets like the U.S. and Europe. Afterpay's success led to its acquisition by Square (now Block) for billions of dollars, making Molnar one of the youngest billionaires in Australia. He remains active in the fintech space and continues to shape the future of digital payments.
View Collection
Austen Allred's Book Recommendations
Austen Allred is an influential entrepreneur and author, best known for his contributions to the education technology sector. He co-founded Lambda School, a groundbreaking online coding bootcamp that offers deferred tuition and has revolutionized access to tech education. In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Allred is the author of "The Grassfed Startup," which provides insights into building sustainable businesses. His innovative approach to education has earned him recognition as a thought leader in the tech industry. Allred continues to inspire with his commitment to making high-quality education accessible to all.
View Collection
Cynthia Johnson's Book Recommendations
Cynthia Johnson is a celebrated author known for her poignant novels that explore themes of identity, resilience, and human connection. She gained critical acclaim with her debut novel, "Whispers in the Wind," which won the National Book Award for Fiction. Her subsequent works, including "Echoes of the Past" and "Fragments of Tomorrow," have been praised for their lyrical prose and deeply emotional narratives. Johnson's contributions extend beyond her writing, as she actively mentors emerging writers and advocates for literacy programs in underserved communities. With a career spanning over two decades, she has firmly established herself as a significant voice in contemporary literature.
View Collection
James Altucher's Book Recommendations
James Altucher is an American hedge fund manager, entrepreneur, author, and podcaster known for his candid and unconventional approach to success and self-improvement. He has authored over 20 books, including bestsellers like "Choose Yourself" and "Reinvent Yourself," which emphasize the importance of resilience and personal empowerment. Altucher is also a prolific blogger, sharing insights on various topics ranging from finance to mental health. His podcast, "The James Altucher Show," features in-depth interviews with a diverse array of influential figures, further cementing his reputation as a thought leader. Through his writing and media presence, Altucher has inspired millions to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success.
View Collection
Brett Adcock's Book Recommendations
Brett Adcock is an entrepreneur and co-founder of Archer Aviation, an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) company focused on revolutionizing urban air mobility. Prior to founding Archer, Adcock co-founded Vettery, a talent marketplace that connects companies with job seekers using data-driven matching technology, which was later acquired by the Adecco Group. At Archer, Adcock is working to build the future of transportation with electric aircraft designed for short-distance flights in urban areas. His vision for the future of air travel has made him a key player in the growing eVTOL and aviation technology industries.
View Collection
Garry Tan's Book Recommendations
Garry Tan is a prominent entrepreneur and investor, best known for his influential role in the technology and startup ecosystem. Co-founder of Initialized Capital, Tan has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring numerous successful startups. His contributions to literature primarily include insightful writings on technology, entrepreneurship, and venture capital, which are widely read and respected within the industry. Tan's blog posts and essays offer valuable guidance and have inspired many aspiring entrepreneurs. Additionally, his work at Y Combinator, where he previously served as a partner, further underscores his significant impact on the startup community.
View Collection
Daymond John's Book Recommendations
Daymond John is a successful entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and author, best known as a star investor on the television show "Shark Tank." He founded the urban apparel company FUBU, which grew into a multi-billion dollar brand. As an author, John has penned several influential books, including the New York Times bestsellers "The Power of Broke" and "Rise and Grind," which offer insights into entrepreneurship and personal development. His work emphasizes the importance of resilience, hard work, and creativity in achieving success. Through his books and public speaking, John has inspired countless individuals to pursue their business dreams and overcome obstacles.
View Collection
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.
View Collection
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.
View Collection“Innovation is not the result of a few geniuses; it is the product of countless ordinary people working together, inspired by necessity and driven by curiosity.”
How Innovation Works
By Matt Ridley
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.