A Culture of Growth

Synopsis

Why Enlightenment culture sparked the Industrial Revolution

During the late eighteenth century, innovations in Europe triggered the Industrial Revolution and the sustained economic progress that spread across the globe. While much has been made of the details of the Industrial Revolution, what remains a mystery is why it took place at all. Why did this revolution begin in the West and not elsewhere, and why did it continue, leading to today's unprecedented prosperity? In this groundbreaking book, celebrated economic historian Joel Mokyr argues that a culture of growth specific to early modern Europe and the European Enlightenment laid the foundations for the scientific advances and pioneering inventions that would instigate explosive technological and economic development. Bringing together economics, the history of science and technology, and models of cultural evolution, Mokyr demonstrates that culture-the beliefs, values, and preferences in society that are capable of changing behavior-was a deciding factor in societal transformations.

Mokyr looks at the period 1500-1700 to show that a politically fragmented Europe fostered a competitive "market for ideas" and a willingness to investigate the secrets of nature. At the same time, a transnational community of brilliant thinkers known as the "Republic of Letters" freely circulated and distributed ideas and writings. This political fragmentation and the supportive intellectual environment explain how the Industrial Revolution happened in Europe but not China, despite similar levels of technology and intellectual activity. In Europe, heterodox and creative thinkers could find sanctuary in other countries and spread their thinking across borders. In contrast, China's version of the Enlightenment remained controlled by the ruling elite.

Combining ideas from economics and cultural evolution, A Culture of Growth provides startling reasons for why the foundations of our modern economy were laid in the mere two centuries between Columbus and Newton.

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Summary

Chapter 1: The Growth Mindset

Summary:
The growth mindset emphasizes that intelligence is not fixed but can be developed through effort and learning. People with a growth mindset believe in their ability to improve and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.

Example:
A student who believes they are bad at math may adopt a fixed mindset, thinking they are incapable of improvement. However, a student with a growth mindset would see math as an opportunity to learn and grow, even if they initially struggle.

Chapter 2: Creating a Culture of Growth in the Classroom

Summary:
To create a culture of growth in the classroom, teachers need to encourage students to take risks, experiment, and learn from their mistakes. They should focus on effort and progress rather than perfection.

Example:
A science teacher allows students to design their own experiments and present their findings. This encourages risk-taking, innovation, and active learning.

Chapter 3: The Role of Assessment in a Culture of Growth

Summary:
Assessment should be used to inform instruction and provide students with feedback on their progress. Teachers should use formative assessments to identify areas for improvement and provide targeted instruction.

Example:
A math teacher uses exit tickets at the end of each lesson to assess student understanding. If students struggle with a particular concept, the teacher can provide additional support or reteach the material.

Chapter 4: Building Relationships in a Culture of Growth

Summary:
Strong relationships between teachers and students are essential for creating a culture of growth. Teachers need to be supportive, encouraging, and accessible to their students.

Example:
A teacher regularly meets with students individually to discuss their progress and provide guidance. This allows students to feel supported and valued.

Chapter 5: Sustaining a Culture of Growth

Summary:
Sustaining a culture of growth requires ongoing effort and commitment. Teachers need to model a growth mindset and encourage students to do the same. They should also seek professional development opportunities to enhance their teaching practices.

Example:
A school establishes a "Growth Mindset Committee" made up of teachers, students, and parents. The committee meets regularly to discuss strategies for promoting a culture of growth throughout the school community.