Book excerpt: CNBC's Fast Money Commentator Steve Cortes shows how to buck the trend and become a well-informed investor The public needs to think independently and not be duped, particularly because those who are selling their messages or promoting their ideas have a plethora of powerful media through which to do so. Against the Herd presents six contrarian views of major events that will shape the future. Steve Cortes of CNBC pulls no punches in explaining these trends. Many will find his views counterintuitive and even controversial. Some will find his forecasts alarming. But open-minded readers who are willing to heed his well-informed advice will find it illuminating, beneficial, and profitable. Steve Cortes presents six contrarian views of major events that will shape the future for investors including the fall of China and the end of the golden era of free trade The contrarian stances are presented because they are actionable Reveals how these events will affect global markets and specific investments, and how and when to take advantage of these key moves Against the Herd shows you how to profit by bucking conventional wisdom and what to do to get ready when situations call for contrarian investing.