The Formula

Network scientist Albert-Laszlo Barabasi analyzes massive datasets to uncover the recurring patterns behind success, arguing that achievement follows measurable laws rather than luck or mystery. He distinguishes performance from success, showing that when performance is hard to measure, networks and reputation take over, and that previous success compounds into future success. Ranging from art markets to science careers to sports, Barabasi builds a data-driven counterpart to the story-based social science of Outliers, testing at scale the same question of why some people rise while equally capable others go unnoticed.