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The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference

By: Malcolm Gladwell

Reflection by: Emily Edwards

Why I read it?

This book came up on a recommended reading list, and one of our team members gave me a brief overview. It seemed interesting so I thought I would give it a go!

What is it all about?

The Tipping Point outlines Malcom Gladwell’s ideas on how anything from an idea to a product can become a popular trend and spread like wildfire – also known as a social epidemic. Of course, there is a certain formula for this to happen, which he explains through three variables: who receives and passes on the word of the trend, how “sticky” or memorable the trend is, and the environment in which the trend is starting.

What caused me to pause?

Reading about the Law of the Few was very interesting. Within this law, Gladwell explains that for an idea to take off, you need a certain three people: connectors, mavens, and salesmen. Connectors are the people who know just about everyone, Mavens are the people with the knowledge, and Salesmen are the persuaders. This was particularly interesting to me because I think we all inherently know that these three types of people are needed for something to spread far and wide, but it was fascinating to get Gladwell’s detailed insight on how they all work together. The more you read, the more you start grouping your friends and family into these categories.

How will this book change my habits/influence me?
After reading this, I will be more mindful of the decisions I make daily that may seem small. Gladwell emphasizes that these small decisions and actions we make each day inspire a “tipping point,” which can ultimately lead to great change.

Add this to your reading list if …

You want to learn more about social phenomena and explore case study examples. Gladwell gives many examples that we are all familiar with and explains how his three variables have led to sociological changes and events – even something like the popularity of a shoe brand is rooted in a combination of these factors!

Pickle Rating: 4.25/5

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