The Lexus and the Olive Tree

Understanding Globalization

By: Thomas L. Friedman

Narrated by: Thomas L. Friedman

Length: 23 hrs and 1 min

Publisher's summary

A brilliant investigation of globalization, the most significant socioeconomic trend in the world today, and how it is affecting everything we do - economically, politically, and culturally - abroad and at home.

As foreign affairs columnist for The New York Times, Thomas L. Friedman crisscrosses the globe talking with the world's economic and political leaders, and reporting, as only he can, on what he sees. Now he has used his years of experience as a reporter and columnist to produce a pithy, trenchant, riveting look at the worldwide market forces that are driving today's economies and how they are playing out both internationally and locally.

Globalization is the technologically driven expression of free-market capitalism, and as such is essentially an American creation. It has irrevocably changed the way business is done and has raised living standards throughout the world. But powerful local forces - of religion, race, ethnicity, and cultural identity - are in competition with technology for the hearts and minds of their societies. Finding the proper balance between the Lexus and the olive tree is the great game of globalization - and the ultimate theme of Friedman's challenging, provocative book, essential reading for all who care about how the world really works.

©2000 Thomas L. Friedman (P)2013 Simon & Schuster

great info balanced perspective

recommended by Robert kiyosaki this was. very interesting and rich text on globalization. neither pro pro con weighed rhe differences

A very eye opening book. A must read for everyone.

No matter if you are a casual learner or a historian, this is a must read to live in this globalization world.

Excellent Analysis

Looking back to when Friedman wrote this, his analysis and predictions are insightful and accurate. I would be interested in a longer view of where globalization leads the world, not just today but for the next fifty years.

Great book. Great presentation.

I was very intrigued by much of the material in this book, specifically the topic of the “Golden Straight-Jacket.” Although by now, many of the examples are outdated somewhat, the principles are far from it.

Still relevant...

My concern in re-reading "The Lexus and the Olive Tree" was that it would no longer be relevant. I had read it in college and I wanted to reread it again later in life into my career. My opinion is that altho

Amazing to know about all this.

If someone wants to understand how the world works, check this out and you’ll understand.

"The Fed" has been rebranded.

A good back-to-back read with this book would be The Creature From Jekyll Island - - about the birth of the federal reserve.

Great read on the nuances of Globalization

The books a little dated but also timeless in it assessment of how people and countries interact. I appreciated the step by step approach the authors candor and the way he laid out his ideas.
Something that holds true today that I recalled. “Today issues are contained, but not solved.”

Too much information to miss if you dont read.

Whole new look in to todays world you wouldnt normaly see or hear about. Must read

I am biased

I disagree with a lot in this book and his attack on the NRA. It is a well written book and I just simply disagree with the author.