A generalist's take on globalization. The books starts off with some interesting anecdotes and discussions. But it goes and on rambling about the same thing. Another downside is that Friedman assume s the reader to be so dumb that some of his descriptions sounds too childish.

A big minus of the book is that, apart from being US-centric the book is like a piece of propagandist pamphlet. It shies away from many issues raised by the opponents of Globalization. For example there is almost no discussion on asymmetries in trade. ( )

Let's extrapolate global events from personal anecdotes! ( )

Written by a Pulitzer-Prize winning columnist, the author explores how globalization is changing the world. ( )

Combined with The World is Flat, this is a must read for understanding globalization. ( )

'm a big fan of Friedman's syndicated columns from the New York Times. He seems to be the most rational voice speaking out on issues involved the Middle East, as opposed to the flaming rhetoric you tend to hear from one side or another. In this book, he explores the issue of globalization, how it affects different parts of the world, and how various people react to it. Friedman's clearly a fan of globalization, though he also points out the down sides. Whether its ultimate effects will be good or bad, Friedman makes the convincing case that globalization is inevitable, so you'd better make the most of it rather than flail helplessly against it.

All the is good about globalism and its inevitability is praised by Fredman. A good read even if you don't agree entirely with his outlook. ( )

This man loves his metaphors a little too much. ( )