Launchpad Republic

How did entrepreneurship become a Svital factor in the American economy, and how can we sustain it? What can the rest of the world learn from America's experience? In Launchpad Republic, Howard Wolk and John Landry focus on the political, legal and cultural forces that have sustained "creative destruction" and propelled the country forward for more than 200 years. They explore how America has differed from other countries and identify the key attributes necessary for continued vitality. Entrepreneurship is a rebellious act, and America's democratic system is unique in enabling new companies to challenge established ones. As a result, the country enjoys not just more robust start-up activity, but also a dynamism that forces big companies to improve...or face the consequences. It protects both property rights and the right to compete in ways not enjoyed elsewhere, encouraging investment and innovation. After explaining how American entrepreneurial capitalism unfolded, the authors address current challenges such as the rise of Big Tech as well as concerns about inequality, inclusivity and sustainability. They compare the American adversarial approach with Europe's consensus-oriented framework and China's authoritarian model. From European thinkers such as Edward Coke and the Baron de Montesquieu, and political innovators such as James Madison and John Marshall, to daring business entrepreneurs such as Cornelius Vanderbilt and David Sarnoff, and social innovators such as Wendy Kopp and Paul Farmer, the book covers the broad history of upstarts creating new kinds of value despite opposition from incumbents. It explains how the country's democratic institutions, decentralized financial and corporate systems, and responsiveness to consumers have enabled innovation and dramatically higher living standards--while largely avoiding cronyism and stagnation. With a clear narrative style, Launchpad Republic is for everyone interested in how America's relentless entrepreneurial spirit has influenced--and will continue to influence--its destiny.