In 'The Enigma of Reason', authors Hugo Mercier and Dan Sperber challenge traditional views of human reasoning, suggesting it's more about social interaction than individual logic. They reveal how reasoning evolved as a tool for communication and persuasion rather than mere cognition. The book dives into fascinating case studies and psychological insights, unraveling the complexities of how we think and justify our beliefs. With a blend of philosophy and science, it offers readers a fresh perspective on the nature of human thought and collective knowledge. Prepare to question everything you thought you knew about reasoning and its role in our lives.
By Hugo Mercier, Dan Sperber
Published: 2019
"Reason is not a solitary pursuit; it is a collective endeavor, shaped by the dialogue of minds and the interplay of ideas."
Reason, we are told, is what makes us human, the source of our knowledge and wisdom. If reason is so useful, why didn't it also evolve in other animals? If reason is that reliable, why do we produce so much thoroughly reasoned nonsense? In their groundbreaking account of the evolution and workings of reason, Hugo Mercier and Dan Sperber set out to solve this double enigma. Reason, they argue with a compelling mix of real-life and experimental evidence, is not geared to solitary use, to arriving at better beliefs and decisions on our own. What reason does, rather, is help us justify our beliefs and actions to others, convince them through argumentation, and evaluate the justifications and arguments that others address to us. In other words, reason helps humans better exploit their uniquely rich social environment. This interactionist interpretation explains why reason may have evolved and how it fits with other cognitive mechanisms. It makes sense of strengths and weaknesses that have long puzzled philosophers and psychologists--why reason is biased in favor of what we already believe, why it may lead to terrible ideas and yet is indispensable to spreading good ones.--
Showing 8 of 28 similar books
Michael Pollan is a renowned American author and journalist, celebrated for his insightful explorations of food, agriculture, and human culture. His groundbreaking book, "The Omnivore's Dilemma," published in 2006, critically examines the complexities of the modern food industry and has become a seminal work in food studies. Pollan's engaging narrative style and thorough research have earned him a place on The New York Times Best Seller list multiple times. In addition to his literary contributions, he is also a professor of journalism at the University of California, Berkeley. Pollan's work continues to influence public discourse on sustainable eating and the ethical implications of food choices.
David Heinemeier Hansson, also known as DHH, is a Danish programmer, entrepreneur, and author, best known as the creator of Ruby on Rails, a popular web application framework. Heinemeier Hansson is also a partner at Basecamp, a project management and collaboration software company he co-founded. His contributions to software development have earned him widespread recognition, with Ruby on Rails being used by thousands of developers and companies worldwide. Heinemeier Hansson is also a vocal advocate for remote work, simplicity in business, and sustainable work practices, ideas he explores in his bestselling books Rework and It Doesn’t Have to Be Crazy at Work. In addition to his work in tech, he is an accomplished race car driver, having competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Heinemeier Hansson’s approach to work-life balance and entrepreneurship has made him a thought leader in the tech community, where he continues to challenge traditional business practices and advocate for more human-centered approaches to work
Darya Rose is a celebrated author and neuroscientist known for her influential work in the field of nutrition and healthy living. She gained widespread acclaim for her book *Foodist: Using Real Food and Real Science to Lose Weight Without Dieting*, which offers a science-based approach to weight management and healthy eating. Rose holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience from the University of California, San Francisco, which lends credibility to her evidence-based recommendations. In addition to her writing, she is the creator of the popular blog Summer Tomato, where she shares insights on food, health, and lifestyle. Rose's work has inspired many to adopt more mindful and sustainable eating habits, making a significant impact on the wellness community.
Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.
Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.
Bryan Johnson is an American entrepreneur, investor, and futurist, best known for founding Braintree, a payments company that was acquired by PayPal, and Kernel, a company focused on developing brain-computer interfaces. Johnson is deeply interested in advancing human cognition and longevity through technological innovation. His work at Kernel seeks to better understand the brain and its potential to enhance human intelligence. He is also the founder of OS Fund, which invests in companies tackling complex, world-changing problems in areas like health and energy. Johnson is a strong advocate for using technology to extend human potential and reshape the future of humanity.
Joe Rogan is a multifaceted American entertainer known primarily for his work as a comedian, podcast host, and commentator. He gained widespread recognition through his immensely popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," which has featured in-depth conversations with a diverse array of guests, including scientists, celebrities, and politicians. Though not primarily known for literature, Rogan has contributed to the field with his thought-provoking discussions that often explore philosophical and intellectual ideas. Additionally, he has authored the book "Mastering the Rubber Guard," which delves into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, showcasing his expertise in martial arts. Rogan's influence extends beyond traditional media, impacting contemporary discourse through his unique blend of humor, curiosity, and critical thinking.
Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
Showing 8 of 18 related collections
“Reason is not a solitary pursuit; it is a collective endeavor, shaped by the dialogue of minds and the interplay of ideas.”
The Enigma of Reason
By Hugo Mercier, Dan Sperber
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Hugo Mercier is a distinguished author and researcher known for his work in the fields of cognitive science and psychology. He gained acclaim for his insightful books, including 'Not Just Chronicles: The Importance of Understanding Relationships in Social Media' and 'The Enigma of Reason,' co-authored with Dan Sperber. Mercier's writing is characterized by its interdisciplinary approach, blending rigorous scientific research with accessible language, making complex ideas comprehensible to a broad audience. His unique perspective on human reasoning and social behavior has sparked discussions in both academic and literary circles.
Dan Sperber is a renowned anthropologist and author, recognized for his interdisciplinary contributions to the understanding of culture and cognition. His notable works include 'Rethinking Symbolism,' in which he explores the cognitive and social dimensions of symbols, and 'Why Humans Share: A Theory of Culture,' which investigates the mechanisms of cultural transmission. Sperber's writing is characterized by its clarity and innovation, often integrating insights from cognitive science, anthropology, and philosophy to challenge conventional perspectives on human behavior and social practices.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'The Righteous Mind', Jonathan Haidt explores the intricacies of human morality and its impact on political divisions. He argues that our sense of right and wrong is shaped more by intuition than by reason, leading to deep-seated clashes between differing moral perspectives. Using insights from psychology, sociology, and anthropology, Haidt delves into the reasons why people hold vastly opposing views despite sharing the same facts. The book encourages readers to understand, rather than vilify, opposing beliefs, making it a compelling read for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of modern discourse. It challenges us to reconsider our moral frameworks and opens the door to greater empathy in an increasingly polarized world.
In 'Oh She Glows Every Day', Angela Liddon offers a vibrant collection of plant-based recipes that celebrate the art of healthy living. Each dish is infused with her signature glow, blending nourishing ingredients with irresistible flavors. Liddon shares personal anecdotes and insights, making healthy cooking approachable and enjoyable. With stunning photography and a focus on seasonal produce, this book inspires readers to embrace a vibrant lifestyle. Discover how to transform your everyday meals into delightful culinary experiences that light up your plate and your spirit!
In 'This Explains Everything,' editor John Brockman curates a fascinating collection of essays from leading thinkers and innovators, each offering their unique perspectives on the fundamental questions of existence. From science to philosophy, the contributors delve into topics that range from the origin of life to the complexities of human behavior. Through these thought-provoking insights, the book explores the intersection of knowledge and curiosity, igniting a spark for deeper exploration in the reader. Readers are left to ponder not just ‘what’ explains everything, but ‘how’ these ideas shape our understanding of the world. Join Brockman on a journey that challenges assumptions and encourages a relentless quest for clarity in a complex universe.
In 'The Happiness Hypothesis', Jonathan Haidt delves into the ancient wisdom of happiness, exploring how age-old philosophies intersect with modern psychology. He presents a compelling argument that our well-being can be influenced by both our external circumstances and internal beliefs. By examining ten great ideas from various cultures, Haidt reveals surprising insights about love, morality, and the meaning of life. This engaging blend of science and philosophy challenges readers to rethink what truly brings happiness. Are we mere puppets of our circumstances, or can we take charge of our own joy?
In 'The Elephant in the Brain', Kevin Simler and Robin Hanson delve into the hidden motives behind our social behaviors, revealing the unspoken truths we often ignore. They argue that much of our actions are driven by self-interest, masked by socially acceptable justifications. The authors challenge readers to confront uncomfortable realities about why we do what we do, igniting a conversation about the darker sides of human nature. With wit and insight, they dissect the complexity of human interactions that often evade our consciousness. This thought-provoking exploration of psychology invites you to rethink your understanding of social dynamics and the motives that lie beneath.
In 'How We Decide,' Jonah Lehrer explores the intricate science behind our decision-making processes, blending psychology, neuroscience, and real-life examples. He reveals the surprising interplay between emotion and reason, challenging the traditional belief that logical thinking is paramount. Through engaging anecdotes, Lehrer uncovers how our subconscious influences choices in ways we often overlook. The book invites readers to reconsider the dynamics of their own decisions and the factors that shape them. Ultimately, it poses a tantalizing question: are we truly in control of our choices?
In 'Change Your Brain, Change Your Life,' Dr. Daniel G. Amen unveils the profound connection between brain health and personal well-being. Through groundbreaking research and real-life case studies, he reveals how understanding brain function can empower you to overcome mental health challenges and improve relationships. With practical strategies for enhancing brain performance, this book challenges conventional thinking about the mind. Prepare to embark on a transformative journey that promises not just change, but a full revitalization of your life. Are you ready to unlock your brain's true potential?
In 'Who We Are and How We Got Here', geneticist David Reich uncovers the profound impact of ancient human migrations on modern populations. Through groundbreaking research, he reveals how DNA traces not only our ancestry but also the intricate tapestry of human history. This captivating exploration challenges conventional notions of identity and belonging, inviting readers to reconsider their place in a global story. Ultimately, Reich's work bridges science and history, illuminating the complex waves of humanity that have shaped who we are today. Prepare to embark on a journey through time that connects the threads of our shared heritage.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
