Introduction
Michelle Malkin's "Who Built That" is a captivating exploration of the entrepreneurial spirit that has shaped the United States. This book takes readers on a journey through time, introducing them to the inventors and entrepreneurs who have been instrumental in building America's economic powerhouse. Malkin challenges popular narratives about innovation and success, arguing that it is not government intervention or public infrastructure alone that drives progress, but rather the ingenuity, determination, and hard work of individuals.
The Foundation of American Innovation
Malkin begins by emphasizing that the United States was built on a foundation of entrepreneurial spirit. From the early days of the nation, with inventors like Benjamin Franklin, to the industrial revolution of the 19th century, and on to modern tech giants like Apple and Microsoft, America has consistently been at the forefront of innovation and entrepreneurship.
The author argues that this success is largely due to the principles of free market capitalism. In the United States, anyone with a vision and the willingness to work hard has traditionally been able to capitalize on their ideas and create a better society. This system has allowed for innovation to flourish without excessive government interference or bureaucratic red tape.
However, Malkin warns that this entrepreneurial spirit is under threat. She contends that the United States is beginning to lose its position as the world leader in innovation, and unless action is taken, the country risks being overtaken by its competitors.
The Power of Tinkerpreneurs
One of the key concepts introduced in the book is that of "tinkerpreneurs." These are individuals who are part inventor, part entrepreneur – people who not only come up with innovative ideas but also have the drive and business acumen to bring those ideas to market.
Malkin takes issue with President Barack Obama's assertion that inventors are nothing special and that their success is primarily due to public infrastructure and education. Instead, she argues that tinkerpreneurs are indeed exceptional individuals who are engaged, clever, and determined. They are the ones who create jobs and build companies, not just those who work in those jobs or for those companies.
The author provides numerous examples of tinkerpreneurs throughout history who have made significant contributions to society. These individuals have taken full advantage of the opportunities provided by the United States to invent and invest, often overcoming significant challenges along the way.
From Invention to Commercial Success
Malkin emphasizes that for tinkerpreneurs, inventions are not just about creating something new – they're about seizing opportunities for commercial success. She illustrates this point with the story of Tony Maglica, the inventor of the Maglite flashlight.
Maglica, a Croatian immigrant, came to the United States with almost nothing. Through hard work and determination, he built a reputation as a skilled contractor. When he saw an opportunity to improve upon existing flashlight designs, he seized it, creating the first Maglite – a revolutionary flashlight with a bright and focusable light. Maglica's story exemplifies the opportunistic attitude that drives successful tinkerpreneurs.
The author also highlights the importance of looking at ideas from different perspectives. She uses the example of air conditioning to show how innovation often comes from reimagining existing concepts. Willis Carrier invented a new approach to cooling systems, but it was Irvine Lyle who saw the broader commercial applications for Carrier's work. This collaboration led to air conditioning becoming a transformative technology that changed where and how people lived and worked.
Overcoming Obstacles and Critics
Malkin emphasizes that the path to success for tinkerpreneurs is often fraught with challenges. Many face critics and naysayers who try to impede their progress. The author uses the story of the Roebling family, who were responsible for the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge, to illustrate this point.
John Roebling, who patented a revolutionary wire rope, faced opposition first from the rigid Prussian government and later from the threatened hemp rope industry in the United States. His son Washington and daughter-in-law Emily continued his work on the Brooklyn Bridge, fighting against skeptics, big businesses, technophobes, and political power brokers to complete the iconic structure.
This story serves as a powerful reminder that true tinkerpreneurs must be prepared to defend their ideas and persevere in the face of adversity. Without such determination, many of the innovations we take for granted today might never have come to fruition.
The Impact of Simple Ideas
Malkin argues that sometimes the most impactful innovations come from the simplest solutions. She uses the example of the crown cap, invented by William Painter, to illustrate this point. This seemingly small invention revolutionized the beverage industry by providing a safe, hygienic, and cost-effective way to seal bottles.
The author also shows how one innovation can inspire others. William Painter's work influenced King Gillette, who went on to invent the disposable razor blade. This relationship between Painter and Gillette demonstrates how tinkerpreneurs often inspire and support each other, creating a ripple effect of innovation.
The Power of Collaboration
Throughout the book, Malkin emphasizes that invention is rarely a solitary endeavor. She provides numerous examples of how collaboration between inventors, engineers, and businesspeople has led to groundbreaking innovations.
One such example is the partnership between Edward Libbey and Michael Owens, who revolutionized glass production. In an industry known for its secrecy and cutthroat competition, Libbey and Owens combined their skills – Owens as an engineer and Libbey as a promoter and defender of property rights – to develop more efficient methods of producing glass.
Another notable collaboration was between scientist Nikola Tesla and investor George Westinghouse. Together, they championed the use of alternating current (AC) electricity, overcoming opposition from Thomas Edison, who promoted direct current (DC) systems. Their persistence and combined expertise led to AC becoming the world standard, paving the way for numerous technological advancements.
The Endangered State of Innovation in America
In the latter part of the book, Malkin expresses concern about the current state of innovation in the United States. She argues that the country, once a paradise for innovation, is now putting that legacy at risk.
The author points to changes in the US patent system as a major threat to innovation. The shift from a "first to invent" to a "first to sign" approach in patent law has, according to Malkin, given large corporations a significant advantage over small inventors. This change means that the entity that first files a patent application, rather than the one who first conceived of the invention, is granted the patent.
Malkin argues that this new system disadvantages small inventors who may need more time to refine their ideas and secure funding before filing a patent. Large corporations, on the other hand, can afford to file numerous patents speculatively, potentially locking out individual inventors and small businesses.
The author also criticizes increasing government regulation, arguing that it stifles creativity and innovation. She contends that a free market where individuals are allowed to earn money, work together, and invent boldly is key to a progressive society, and that these rights are being eroded.
The Importance of Recognizing Innovators
Throughout the book, Malkin emphasizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating the individuals behind the inventions and products we use every day. She encourages readers to research the history of everyday items, from toilet paper to smartphones, to gain an appreciation for the hard work and ingenuity that went into their creation.
This recognition, Malkin argues, is not just about giving credit where it's due. It's about understanding the process of innovation and the challenges that inventors face. By appreciating these stories, we can better support and encourage future innovations.
Final Thoughts
"Who Built That" is a passionate defense of entrepreneurship and innovation in America. Michelle Malkin argues convincingly that the United States' economic success and technological leadership have been built on the backs of determined, creative individuals who were willing to take risks and challenge the status quo.
The book serves as both a celebration of past achievements and a warning about the future. Malkin contends that the spirit of innovation that has driven American progress is under threat from increased regulation and changes to the patent system that favor large corporations over individual inventors.
By sharing the stories of numerous "tinkerpreneurs" throughout history, Malkin illustrates the power of individual initiative and the importance of a system that rewards innovation. She emphasizes that true progress comes not just from having good ideas, but from having the determination to bring those ideas to market in the face of often significant obstacles.
The author's message is clear: if America wants to maintain its position as a global leader in innovation, it needs to return to its roots. This means fostering an environment where individuals are free to invent, collaborate, and profit from their ideas without excessive government interference.
"Who Built That" is a call to action for policymakers, business leaders, and ordinary citizens alike. It reminds us of the importance of protecting and nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit that has been so crucial to America's success. By recognizing and supporting the tinkerpreneurs of today and tomorrow, we can ensure that the United States remains at the forefront of innovation for generations to come.