This topic is of course exceedingly relevant in these days of Trump presidency along with the tremendous media coverage given now to sexual harassment/abuse proclivities of seemingly so many powerful men. The psychological aspects, including psychopathy, are fascinating to consider. A very informative and thoughtful book, it is well worth one's time to read. Highly recommended.

Well written and clear, it's a serious look at the topic. More general insights into life in organizations are valuable, especially for those wanting to understand entrepreneurs. The writer blends theory with real cases, very helpful to readers who may be less familiar with psychological frameworks.

This book has the tagline of ‘the perversion of America’s self-made man’, but this has nothing to do with sexual activity. Instead it claims to serve up the ‘disturbing truth’ behind some of America’s most-celebrated success stories.

Icons such as Donald J. Trump, Lance Armstrong and Steve Jobs come under the author’s gaze, noting that whilst many will describe them as ambitious, visionaries, entrepreneurs and talented, there are many other words that are not always present. Words such as mean, manipulative and toxic are allegedly relevant, but tend to be forgotten. Forgotten or tacitly understood and forgiven? The author wonders whether this is because ‘America loves a winner’ and thus any sins can be ignored when an iconic hero is winning. Does this make the average American complicit and even approving of such behaviour, which has been likened to a major psychological disorder?

This is an interesting book that may raise the ire of many readers, whether through disagreement or by realisation of what has been going on. As a non-American outsider, this reviewer can remain a bit aloof. I cannot state whether the author is correct in his observations, but certainly it may match a lot of the perceptions formed over time based on media coverage. The media, however, is not infallible and always right.

The style of the book was something I struggled to get on with. It could have been a little more direct and focussed at times. A more accessible style may have made it ‘easier’ for readers to possibly recognise their own failings and seek to repent and change too. It was a bit too easy to get distracted and put down, which is a shame when there is apparently an important story to tell. It demands an uninterrupted sequential read, yet seems to place barriers in the way.

Mean Men, written by Mark Lipton and published by Voussoir Press. ISBN 9780998613000. YYYY

This book is so interesting. It uncovers some really dark secrets!