"The Value of Everything" by Mariana Mazzucato is an enlightening and thought-provoking read that delves into the question of how value is created in our economy and who gets to capture it. The author's central argument is that the traditional distinction between the public and private sectors is becoming increasingly blurred, with the state playing a much larger role in driving innovation and economic growth than is often acknowledged. Through a wide range of examples from different industries, the author illustrates this argument and provides a comprehensive understanding of how state intervention has shaped various industries throughout history.
One of the strengths of the book is the way the author uses real-world examples to support her argument. The author takes us on a journey through different industries such as biotech, renewable energy and the internet, and shows how state-funded research and development played a critical role in their growth. The author's analysis of the biotech industry is particularly enlightening as it highlights how state-funded research in universities laid the foundation for many of the biotech firms that are now considered leading innovators in the field.

The book also provides some insightful critiques of the current economic paradigm and its focus on GDP as the measure of economic success. The author convincingly argues that GDP is misleading and fails to capture many of the values that are important to society such as well-being, sustainability, and equality. The author suggests alternative measure of value that takes into account the social, environmental, and economic dimensions of progress and argues that this is necessary for a fair and sustainable economic system.
Throughout the book, the author's writing style is engaging and easy to follow. Even for those who may not have a background in economics, the author does an excellent job of explaining complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand. The book is well-researched and well-written, making it accessible to a wide audience.
In summary, Mazzucato’s book is an important and valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about the role of the state in driving economic growth and shaping the economy. It provides a comprehensive and detailed analysis of the role of state-funded research and development in shaping various industries, as well as critiques of the current economic paradigm and an ambitious vision for a more inclusive and sustainable economic future. The book is well-written and easy to follow, making it accessible to a wide audience. It is a must-read for anyone interested in economics, innovation, and public policy, and it may change the way you look at the economy and the role of the state in shaping it.