Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World

Newport introduces three different people: statistician Nate Silver, computer programmer David Heinemeier Hansson, and venture capitalist John Doerr. Newport provides a brief background on each, and claims that all three are “winners” in this modern, tech-driven economy. He claims that the reasons why these men are winners can be broken down into two parts. First, there is the micro reason, which involves personality traits and generally focuses on the individual. The second is macro, and focuses “more on the type of work they represent” (22).

Newport then cites two economists, Erik Brynjolfsson and Andrew McAfee, who, among other things, point out the way labor markets will change as more technology begins to perform lower-skilled work. This will create a scenario in which machines replace people. Brynjolfsson and McAfee break down three different sub-groups of workers who will thrive in the economic restructuring resulting from more automation. The first group consists of high-skilled workers, which Nate Silver represents. These people are able to work effectively and creatively with new technology.

David Heinemeier Hansson represents the second group, the superstars. Essentially, in this group, those who are the most talented at their given skills will thrive.

The third group is the owners, as represented by John Doerr.