Fences and Windows: Dispatches from the Front Lines of the Globalization Debate

Naomi Klein, Flamingo, 2002

The award-wining journalist and heroine of the so-called anti-globalization movement has done it again. She’s produced a book set to become an international bestseller. But unlike No Logo, which was a thesis-driven book based on extensive research, this is a collection of Klein’s most notable articles and addresses on the key issues of the globalization debate. Breathtakingly intelligent, provocative and passionate.

Saving the Corporate Soul (and (Who Knows?) Maybe Your Own): Eight Principles for Creating and Preserving Integrity and Profitability Without Selling Out

David Batstone, Jossey-Bass, 2003, 270pp

This book is structured around eight principles for saving the corporate soul. The same principles, the author argues, are also important for achieving long-term business success. It is not necessary, he argues, to sacrifice one’s soul for the sake of corporate success. Essential reading for all business people.

Peter Heslam

The Civil Corporation: The New Economy of Corporate Citizenship

Simon Zadek, Earthscan, 2003 (p/b), 257pp

What is the role of business in society? This is, most likely, the leading issue of the 21st century. Zadek tackles it with a brilliant display of practical and theoretical insight. The result is a book that is relevant and challenging to businesses, NGOs, governments and to all who are concerned about values in contemporary society. It establishes Zadek as a thought-leader in the contribution business can make to economically, socially and environmentally sustainable development.

Peter Heslam

The Company: A Short History of a Revolutionary Idea

John Micklethwait and Adrian Woodridge, The Modern Library, 2003, 191 pages

This is a lively and concise history of the business company from its earliest antecedents in antiquity to the multinational corporations of today. The authors, both of whom work for The Economist, assert that the corporation is the most important form of contemporary social organization. Unlike ‘anti-globalization’ protestors, however, they claim that it represents the best hope for the world’s future.

Peter Heslam

In Defence of Globalization

Jagdish Bhagwati, OUP, 2004, 308pp

The recent surge of ‘anti-globalization’ thought has put many economics and business commentators on the defensive. Bhagwati’s book represents the latest example. It is presents, however, a well-founded case, and it comes from one of the world’s leading authorities on international trade. Highly recommended, to those on both sides of the debate, for its clarity, rigour and depth.

Peter Heslam