An Examined Life - A discussion group to exchange ideas and opinions related to psychology, science and philosophy.
The format is that we select a theme and pick a book related to that theme to discuss.
The link to the book will be posted and also a talk/podcast related to the book should you not have time to read the full book before the meetup.
Pre-reading is not mandatory, however, everyone will get more out of the session if you read the book or listen to the short talk.
The aim is to meet downstairs in Wetherspoons, ask around downstairs and I'm sure you'll find the group!
First published in 2016, Seven Powers: The Foundations of Business Strategy is a concise, high-impact guide that redefines how sustainable competitive advantage is created. Written by Hamilton Helmer, a seasoned strategy consultant and investor, the book distills decades of experience into seven fundamental “powers” — mechanisms that allow a business to generate outsized returns and defend its position over time.
Drawing from detailed case studies of iconic companies like Apple, Google, Netflix, Intel, Pixar, and Amazon, Helmer illustrates how real-world businesses have leveraged powers like network economies, counter-positioning, scale economies, and process power to achieve durable success. Rather than abstract theory, the book offers a clear, logic-driven framework for identifying and building strategic moats — making it essential reading for startup founders, product leaders, and investors.
Grounded in economic principles yet deeply practical, Seven Powers has become a modern classic for anyone seeking to build or back companies with long-term strategic advantage.
Book link:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/7-Powers-Foundations-Business-Strategy/dp/0998116319?dplnkId=3cbfe6ab-b8f0-4fe5-b39a-e5a04218efbc
YouTube summary link:
https://youtu.be/kADDJrsWMog?si=4anv2Y9N60tVdeDG
https://youtu.be/hKq1_KPSqy0?si=6Kas6QjYMIiX0yOl
Hope to see you there.
