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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Age of Ambition summary
Evan Osnos
Chasing Fortune, Truth and Faith in the New China
19 mins
Brief summary
Age of Ambition by Evan Osnos examines the rise of China's middle class and their desire for freedom, success, and individualism in a country ruled by the Communist Party. It explores the collision between modern aspirations and traditional values in contemporary China.
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Age of Ambition
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Key idea 1 of 11
Since the 1980s China’s economy has been growing spectacularly – and continues to expand today.
The Chinese economy has become an incredible success story: over the course of only a few decades, the country has leapt from poverty to economic domination, and become one of the biggest players in the world – its rapid growth continues to this day.
In fact, over the last 30 years China’s economy has grown at a rate of approximately eight percent per year in terms of GDP. In other words, it has doubled in size every seven to eight years!
That makes China the fastest-growing economy worldwide. Between 1989 and 2014, China’s annual GDP growth rate averaged an astonishing nine percent, while the United States’ grew only three percent during the same period.
Coupled with China’s amazing GDP growth is an equally impressive rise in income – one that continues to soar today.
Consider, for example, that in 1978 the average Chinese per capita income was a meager $200 per year. In contrast, the average Chinese citizen today brings home 30 times that amount – around $6,000. What’s more, wages, just like China’s overall economic conditions, continue to improve.
In addition, China has become increasingly important as an exporter over the years.
Back in 1999, China’s exports amounted to less than a third of those of the world’s largest exporter, the United States, placing it at number nine on the list of top global exporters. However, a mere decade later China had launched itself into first place.
Clearly, China’s economy is booming. That only leaves us asking: Why?
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What is Age of Ambition about?
Age of Ambition offers an insightful look into the many changes that have taken place in China over the past 30 years, transforming the country from a destitute, developing nation into the economic powerhouse it is today. Evan Osnos examines the day-to-day lives of Chinese citizens as they navigate a new social and economic reality.
Age of Ambition Review
Age of Ambition (2014) by Evan Osnos explores the complexities of modern China and the ambitions driving its people. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Offers a riveting portrayal of individuals navigating China's rapidly changing society, capturing the tensions and aspirations that define the country.
- Provides insights into the struggles and sacrifices made in pursuit of success, shedding light on the intersection of personal ambition and societal expectations.
- Through vivid storytelling and extensive research, the book paints a comprehensive picture of China's rise, offering readers a deeper understanding of one of the world's most influential nations.
Best quote from Age of Ambition
In my years in China . . . airline passengers doubled; cell phone sales tripled; the length of the Beijing subway quadrupled.
—Evan Osnos
Who should read Age of Ambition?
- Anyone who wants to understand China today
- Anyone who wants to learn about China’s rise to economic power
- Anyone curious about the balance between individualism and state domination in China
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Age of Ambition FAQs
What is the main message of Age of Ambition?
The main message of Age of Ambition is the complex clash between individual ambition and the authoritarian state in China.
How long does it take to read Age of Ambition?
The reading time for Age of Ambition varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Age of Ambition a good book? Is it worth reading?
Age of Ambition is a compelling read that offers deep insight into modern China and the complexities of ambition. It's definitely worth reading.
Who is the author of Age of Ambition?
The author of Age of Ambition is Evan Osnos.
What to read after Age of Ambition?
If you're wondering what to read next after Age of Ambition, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- The Job-Ready Guide by Anastasia de Waal
- Adaptability by Max McKeown
- The Self-Made Billionaire Effect by John Sviokla and Mitch Cohen
- Mastering Leadership by Robert J. Anderson and William A. Adams
- Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
- Born For This by Chris Guillebeau
- The Monopolists by Mary Pilon
- Buddhism – Plain and Simple by Steve Hagen
- When Genius Failed by Roger Lowenstein
- Boost! by Michael Bar-Eli