A compass for the future

How can our core values reconnect rather than divide? How can they help us to courageously shape change and stay on course in times of crisis? In five short chapters, transformation expert and SPIEGEL bestselling author Maja Göpel shows that it is possible to find common ground. Because the social, economic and political instruments for a fairer future and strong democracies are a reliable and sustainable basis.

Most people want to cooperate in solving the crises, but in the crossfire of heated social debates, they just don't expect it from others. We are also much closer together on the question of what constitutes prosperity than public statements often suggest. Instead of further polarizing society, we need to negotiate the path to future prosperity together - by giving central democratic values such as equal opportunities and transparency their proper place.

Checking in creatively and together to shape the future does not have to mean tearing down everything that already exists. So why not restructure bureaucracy innovatively instead of always demanding more or less government? Why not design and use existing resources in such a way that effective problem-solving becomes possible?

And why not become competitive by finally taking stock of what the status quo costs and how investments can contribute to sustainable value creation and social security of supply? What really counts and why does this continue to be ignored in key economic indicators such as GDP?

Maja Göpel uses clear analyses, social science concepts, inspiring examples and an encouraging look ahead to show how standardized norms, economic values and ethical values shape our actions and our future - and why an impact-oriented policy can succeed in overcoming the typical battles between camps.


The contents of the 5 chapters in a nutshell:

1. The majority want to cooperate - they just don't suspect that the others want it too. But cooperation is the key to overcoming crises.
2. Renewing prosperity is possible - if we apply the right standards. We need a new understanding of what really counts instead of clinging to old targets.
3. Politics can be effective - if we restructure bureaucracy innovatively. Instead of dismantling the state, we need to shape it in such a way that it makes bold changes possible.
4. Competitiveness comes from smart accounting. We need new metrics that take nature, social issues and humanity into account - and not just growth at any price.
5. Decency is our anchor in the storm. Especially in uncertain times, it provides orientation and unites us when we act together.

(Publisher's text - reproduced with kind permission)