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Vice-president turned activist Al Gore writes about about how politics in the US has degenerated recently, especially over the Bush-Cheney years. The crux of the book is about how politicians use fear over reason to their electoral advantage - particularly in the use of television advertising. Examples used include how Bush/Cheney misled the public in order to justify the Iraq war, and how new security measures were introduced which essentially strips the US population of their liberties and rights. Use of torture, lack of regard for the environment is also discussed. Quite a bit of Bush-bashing, which is to be expected, made the discussion somewhat less impartial. Still a great read especially since it is very relevant.

Gladwell takes a look at what has made people succeed. Examples of successes include lawyers, ice hockey players, IT businessmen (include Bill Gates), as well as his mother.

How people became successful is a combination of taking opportunities/chances, luck, when they were born, what ethnicity, etc. No surprises here, but an interesting read nevertheless.

Similar to his previous books, an easy read. Recommended.