From the first chapter, Lewis shows that systemic change has identifiable turning points but is also a complex process that cannot be entirely broken down. Creative individuals who bring fresh insights or approaches can trigger small-scale changes. As those small-scale changes are more widely adopted, the momentum may snowball into systemic changes. The evolution of football strategy is an example of this, Lewis contends. It began with Bill Walsh devising a new kind of passing game that elevated the play of both mediocre and exemplary players. Lawrence Taylor threatened that new kind of play with his ferocity and passion, and Walsh’s system had to adapt to the new threat. Meanwhile, Taylor inspired other young players to follow his lead as Walsh inspired coaches to adopt his West Coast offense. As these changes gained momentum over time, a new need emerged: a left tackle who could meet the pass-rushing threat and allow the West Coast offense to flourish.

The convergence of changes that took place over some twenty-five years paved the way for Michael Oher to become a highly coveted player: He embodied the skills and talents offensive coaches coveted.

Lewis applies a similar complex view to human

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