Informative and thought provoking
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I must confess that I was switched onto this book by a business website. I was looking for something which would help me to illustrate the power of a good arguement. I'm always a little cautious about these kind of books as people with a background in business aren't always to my taste in writing styles due to the fact that I like literature which some find a little highbrow, all of which made reading this even more of a pleasure.
Heinrichs puts his arguement across well and develops his ideas logically throughout the book. Like any good writer of something of reference the conclusions at the end of each chapter allow a certain ammount of cheating - should you wish only to cover the key points. This also serves to aid in referring back to find key sections. His style is conversational but manages to avoid sounding partronising - unlike some books of its kind.
There are two thoroughly refreshing aspects to this book that made the reading experience all the more enjoyable. The first was the juxtaposition of the classic (and well researched) arguments with some very contemporary references. Some of the contrasts are mentioned in the title and it really does mix them up in this way. This is particularly effective when the arguement itself becomes complex and somewhat abstract. It may lead to the book dating somewhat in years to come, but does really help illuminate the points most effectively.
The other aspect I enjoyed was his almost obsessive notation and the derivation of the words, in particular. This will result in my ensuring this book is put to good use and not left to gather dust.
If you are looking for something to illustrate the power of persuasion then this book definately achieves the remit. It is an engrossing, unconventionally illustrated, and ultimately intersting read.
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United States | 
United Kingdom | 
Canada