The Seventh Sense: Power, Fortune, and the Quest for Global Resources by Joshua Cooper Ramo is a book that explores the idea of “seventh sense,” which is the ability to understand and navigate the complex networks that govern our world. The book argues that in today’s interconnected world, success and power are no longer determined by physical resources alone, but rather by the ability to read and influence these networks.
In the first chapter, Ramo introduces the concept of the seventh sense and explains how it has become increasingly important in today’s world. He argues that the seventh sense is the ability to understand and navigate the complex networks that govern our world, including economic, political, and cultural networks. Ramo provides examples of individuals and organizations that have successfully used the seventh sense to achieve success and power, such as Google, the Chinese government, and the Rothschild family.
Chapter 2: The Rise of the Network State
In the second chapter, Ramo discusses the rise of the network state, which he defines as a state that is governed not by physical territory, but by a network of relationships and connections. He argues that network states are more powerful than traditional states because they can more easily access and control resources and information. Ramo provides examples of network states such as China, which he argues has become increasingly powerful through its ability to navigate and control its networks.
Chapter 3: The New Great Game
In the third chapter, Ramo discusses the “new great game,” which he defines as the competition between different networks and states for resources and power. He argues that this competition is becoming increasingly important as traditional sources of power such as military might become less important in the face of network power. Ramo provides examples of different networks and states competing for resources and power, such as the competition between the United States and China for access to resources in Africa.
Chapter 4: The Power of the Seventh Sense
In the fourth chapter, Ramo discusses the power of the seventh sense and how it can be used to achieve success and power. He argues that the seventh sense is not just about understanding networks, but also about being able to influence them. Ramo provides examples of individuals and organizations that have used the seventh sense to achieve success and power, such as Google’s ability to dominate the search engine market through its ability to understand and manipulate search algorithms.
Chapter 5: The Future of the Seventh Sense
In the fifth chapter, Ramo looks towards the future and discusses the potential implications of the seventh sense for society and the world. He argues that the seventh sense has the potential to create a more connected and prosperous world, but also has the potential to create new forms of inequality and control. Ramo provides examples of different scenarios for the future of the seventh sense, including the possibility of a world where network states become increasingly powerful and dominant.
Conclusion
Overall, The Seventh Sense by Joshua Cooper Ramo is a thought-provoking book that provides a unique perspective on the power and importance of networks in today’s world. Through his exploration of the seventh sense, Ramo highlights the ways in which networks have become increasingly important in shaping our world, and provides insights into how individuals and organizations can use the seventh sense to achieve success and power. Whether you are interested in business, politics, or simply the way the world works, The Seventh Sense is a must-read book that will leave you with a new understanding of the world around us.