Reconstructing Strategy

“An intellectual gem.”
Professor Chris Coker, London School of Economics

Reconstructing Strategy: Dancing with the God of Objectivity pioneers an approach to strategy based on Dr. Saqib Qureshi’s insight that “self-identity is the prime strategic directive.”

Qureshi demonstrates the failures of modern strategy, covering personal strategy, organizational strategy and foreign policy strategy partly through the works of three modern strategists.

With examples ranging from Disneyland to the Iranian Revolution, from Jan Morris to Great Britain’s Suez Crisis of 1956, Reconstructing Strategy then elucidates self-identity’s
impact on strategy.

“The book’s depth, and Qureshi’s breezily unpretentious style, make it a worthy read. A delightfully nonstandard approach to strategy that doesn’t get bogged down by hyper-technical language.”
Kirkus Reviews

"For those with an interest in an enlightened and broad view of strategy, Reconstructing Strategy is sure to be a compelling book.”
Foreword Reviews

“Using the construct of self-identity as the starting point to define and develop strategy is a stroke of genius. Dr Qureshi argues his case with great effect, humour and wisdom; enabling any individual, organization or government to begin a coherent and meaningful conversation on strategy.”

Grayson Bass, Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto

*****

Reconstructing Strategy explores how our self-identities, whether as individuals, organizations or countries, impact our strategies. Specifically, the book demonstrates that self-identity impacts how we see the world, our vision (however vague that might be) and the steps we take to get from where we are to where we want to be.

In doing so, the book is unorthodox. It not only draws upon a very wide range of intellectual disciplines, but it maintains a punchy, conversational tone with slithers of humour. For instance, besides relying on philosophers such as Kant and Foucault, the author leans as easily on Disney's Buzz and Woody.

Dr. Saqib Qureshi worked at HSBC Investment Bank, McKinsey & Co and has written for The Financial Times. He also has advised several international governments. He attended The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys School in England and completed his undergraduate and PhD degrees at the London School of Economics and Political Science. He’s not sure how any of that’s more relevant than his love of dunking McVities Rich Tea biscuits in a mug of Sainsbury’s Red Label tea but at least the bio sort of somehow conforms to convention