Outliers by Malcom Gladwell

2024-03-07 2 min read Sincheenz

I expected the book to describe the strategies of outliers – persons with qualities or abilities that set them apart from others. Much to my surprise and delight, the book approaches the concept of being an outlier differently. Malcolm Gladwell discusses the external factors and circumstances that lead an individual to become an outlier and how success is a result of a combination of individual effort, external opportunity, cultural factors and timing.

There are so many who might have missed the chance of making it big, simply by not being in the right place at the right time or being born into the family or culture which could not provide them the appropriate support to advance. There are a lot of talented people, and many are talented and hardworking too. However, if the circumstances and opportunities are not presented to these people at the right time, then the chances of making their talent and hard work into something extraordinary and successful are low. Early advantages and opportunities are crucial contributors of success. Gladwell also introduces the “10,000-Hour Rule.” If one has the opportunity to repeatedly engage in a task or activity, they will inevitably improve at it. Bill Gates is one of the examples he cites. Having had the early advantage of access to a computer, which most kids his age did not have, and his diligence in putting in hours and hours of coding, only helped him create the Microsoft empire.

The second part of the book delves mostly into Cultural difference and upbringing – emphasizing why some individuals will have it easier than others. The book also explores why people from some cultures do not shy away from work, while others believe that rest is their birthright.

It also talks about why things go wrong and how this can be avoided to an extent. The many examples provided on flight accidents shows clearly that there is more to human error than we assume. It’s an interesting read that makes you look at things from a different perspective.