In Capitalism to Peopleism, leadership mentor and former Tata Group chairman Ravi Chaudhry offers a visionary roadmap for a systemic transformation of governance. He argues that traditional capitalism is dysfunctional and "unreformable," leading toward the "abyss of extinction," but that owners of capital can still flourish if they prioritize human wellbeing and the planet. Chaudhry introduces "Peopleism" as a new governance model rooted in equity, sustainability, transparency, and justice—a system designed to nurture true democracy and "an economics that works for all". This paradigm shift demands that the "primacy of profit must make way for the predominance of people".
The core of the book is the "leadership leap" from knowledge-based approaches to wisdom-led governance. Chaudhry identifies the key traits of this new leadership as awareness, bridge-building, and compassion. He critiques the myth of "trickle-down" economics and proposes a "surge-up" development structure that realistically aligns short-term financial imperatives with the long-term collective aspirations of all stakeholders. The book invites individuals and leaders to "shape your future before it shapes you," empowering those who aspire to live in a safer, happier, and more equitable world through systemic transformation rather than incremental tweaks.
Transitioning to a Wisdom Economy: Chaudhry’s vision of a "wisdom economy" is one where the mind is without fear and meaningful choices are available to everyone, not just the elite. The Sacred Canopy of Care is strengthened by his assertion that leadership is not about serving a select few but about securing the genuine trust of all stakeholders. This demands a rethink of decision-making principles and structures, transitioning away from the concentration of authority in a few hands and toward the "acquisition of capacity of all to resist authority when abused". Chaudhry's optimism offers a "flicker of hope" to even jaded readers, suggesting that a transformation cemented by doctrines of equity and justice is within reach.
Capitalism to Peopleism supports the Sacred Canopy of Care by providing the leadership roadmap required to shift from a focus on extractive profit to a focus on the flourishing of all people, thereby creating a "Safe New World".