Right Here, Right Now

Politics and Leadership in the Age of Disruption

By: Stephen J. Harper

Narrated by: Stephen J. Harper

In this timely and insightful new book, Stephen J. Harper, Canada's 22nd Prime Minister, draws on a decade of experience as a G-7 leader to help leaders in business and government understand, adapt, and thrive in an age of unprecedented disruption.

The world is in flux. Disruptive technologies, ideas, and politicians are challenging business models, norms, and political conventions everywhere. How we, as leaders in business and politics, choose to respond matters greatly. Some voices refuse to concede the need for any change, while others advocate for radical realignment. But neither of these positions can sustainably address the legitimate concerns of disaffected citizens.
Right Here, Right Now sets out a pragmatic, forward-looking vision for leaders in business and politics by analyzing how economic, social, and public policy trends--including globalized movements of capital, goods and services, and labour--have affected our economies, communities, and governments. Harper contends that Donald Trump's surprise election and governing agenda clearly signal that political, economic, and social institutions must be more responsive to legitimate concerns about public policy, market regulation, immigration, and technology. Urging readers to look past questions of style and gravitas, Harper thoughtfully examines the substantive underpinnings of how and why Donald Trump was able to succeed Barack Obama as President of the United States, and how these forces are manifesting themselves in other western democracies. Analyzing international trade, market regulation, immigration, technology, and the role of government in the digital economy, Harper lays out the case for pragmatic leadership as a proven solution to the uncertainty and risk that businesses and governments face today.

great book

Can be a bit all over the place, however full of great stats, insights, and ideas.

articulates his position well

he articulates his position well, as well as gives a fairly accurate analysis of the present political zeitgiest. could have been even spicier with the libertarian memes though so as to maybe come across more as half in jest than fully mean spirited but that's just nit picking, i like jokes made at my expence to be REALLY spicey

Excellent book on Politics for Canadians AND Americans

This is a very well presented comment on politics in general, and it’s connection to business and ultimately the common voter and worker, be they a citizen or immigrant. The material is very mature, surprisingly non-partisan and objective as well as appropriately self-critical. I am very glad I read it. Harper is a surprisingly good audible reader and performer. This book should be mandatory for all high school Social Studies students.

I am glad that there are people in the world like Harper, and I hope that he is inspired to continue to write more of such excellent material.

Great Summary

Enjoyable and straight to the point! Clarity and objectivity really made for an easy read/listen.

The best explanation of populism so far

The best explanation of populism I have seen so far, coming from a highly credible source.

1. Harper knows how things actually work (he’s an economist, and a pragmatist). He is not afraid of change or technology.

2. He has been exposed to the human and political realities of our world in a way and on a level that no journalist or business leader or professor can duplicate.

Despite the less than spectacular title choice for the book and Harper’s monotone reading of it, the contents are golden... in this way it is much like the author’s own political career.