The Capitalist and the Activist

Corporate Social Activism and the New Business of Change

By: Tom C.W. Lin

Narrated by: Sean Pratt

This is the first in-depth examination of the important ongoing fusion of activism, capitalism, and social change, masterfully told through a compelling narrative filled with vivid stories and striking studies.

Today, corporations and their executives are at the front lines of some of the most important and contentious social and political issues of our time, such as voting rights, gun violence, racial justice, immigration reform, climate change, and gender equality. Why is this sea change in business and activism happening? How should executives and activists engage one another to create meaningful progress? What are potential pitfalls and risks for each side? What can they learn from each other? What first principles should guide leaders moving forward?

The Capitalist and the Activist offers an engaging and thoughtful look at the new reality of corporate social activism - its driving forces, promises and perils, and implications for our businesses and personal lives. Weaving deep research and fascinating stories that span business, entertainment, history, science, and politics, Tom Lin provides an insightful road map for how society arrived here and a practical compass for moving forward. Drawing together examples from the civil rights movement, campaign finance litigation, gun regulation, Black Lives Matter, the Confederate flag controversy, the Trump presidency, and other historical events, Lin brilliantly reveals and charts the course for a changing society of capitalists and activists seeking both profit and progress.

The Capitalist and the Activist is a must-listen for anyone trying to understand the emerging future of activism, business, and politics.

©2022 Tom C.W. Lin (P)2022 Tom C.W. Lin

Fun contemporary look at CSR

The author is a great storyteller. The book is also very well written and easy to follow.

A must read book for all CEOs

In these times of social, political and economic crisis, ignoring the enormous potential we have as business leaders to help solving the problems that plague our societies is very risky. The cost of not participating in public affairs far outweighs the cost of doing so. Activist business leadership is no longer an option. The good news is that it pays off, not just for the company, but for society as a whole and for the planet as well. This is an extraordinary book that every CEO and business leader should read.