Winners take all is about the dream of “doing well by doing good”, the idea that there is always a win-win solution to every social problem, and the belief that elites equipped with technology and market tools should be entrusted to lead social changes, preferably independent of the democratic processes, or politics. The author argues these ideas are largely an illusion, if not a deception, because the overlap between individual and collective interest is limited.  There is nothing wrong about wanting to do well by doing good; but we are kidding ourselves if we believe these do-gooders are saviors of our collective future.  The book is very harsh on the intellectuals who promote these ideas.  These so-called “thought leaders” are described as the cheerleaders employed by the “idea industry” to project positive energy, presumably at the expense of our collective good.

Overall, a good and easy read, and the main argument is fair and well-reasoned, if not entirely neutral.