Bellwether by Connie Willis.

What causes fads? How do you turn them on and off?  How does information diffuse through a population?  

You wouldn’t think that would be the basis for a thoroughly entertaining sci-fi novel.  It is, though.  In “Bellwether”, two scientists navigate the stormy seas of modern management theory, stalked by an anti-guardian angel, and find their way to the safe harbors of love and significant scientific breakthrough.

Connie Willis is a favorite writer, and “Bellwether”, after “Doomsday Book” and “To Say Nothing of the Dog” is one of my favorite books.  Any Willis book is a twofer – you come away entertained and having learned something.

Recommended.