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You are Not So Smart

Why Your Memory is Mostly Fiction, Why You Have Too Many Friends on Facebook and 46 Other Ways You're Deluding Yourself
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( 35,205 ratings, 2,316 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
You Are Not So Smart by David McRaney delves into the common cognitive biases and logical fallacies that affect our everyday thinking. Through engaging and accessible explanations, the book reveals how our minds often deceive us and offers insight into improving critical thinking and self-awareness.
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Format: Paperback / softback

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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're curious about the quirks of the human mind and how our brains often mislead us. It offers fascinating insights and practical examples to help you understand and overcome self-deception and cognitive biases. Great for anyone interested in psychology and personal growth!

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You are Not So Smart

Think you’re rational? Think again

'A much-needed field guide to the limits of our so-called consciousness. McRaney presents a witty case for just how witless we all are.' William Poundstone author of Are You Smart Enough to Work at Google?

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Have you ever wondered how much you truly know your Facebook friends? Or considered whether you would step in to help a stranger in need when no one else does? Do you believe your purchasing decisions are based entirely on preferences and rational thoughts? Do you know the real reasons behind your procrastination tendencies?

The surprising truth that You Are Not So Smart by David McRaney reveals is that we are all more irrational and self-delusional than we like to admit. But fear not—this irrationality is a fundamental part of the human experience. In this engaging and enlightening book, McRaney presents a collection of 48 short chapters that delve into the myriad ways we deceive ourselves. Each chapter offers a fascinating look at the cognitive biases, logical fallacies, and mental shortcuts that influence our everyday decisions and behaviours.

Based on the highly popular blog of the same name, You Are Not So Smart takes readers on a whirlwind tour of the latest discoveries in psychology. From the allure of brand loyalty to the curious nature of memory, McRaney invites you to explore why we fail to stick to New Year's resolutions, why we overestimate our understanding of complex topics, and how social conformity subtly shapes our actions.

McRaney's writing is both humorous and accessible, making complex psychological concepts easy to understand and relate to. This book not only uncovers the quirks of human nature but also offers insight into how we can become more aware of our cognitive limitations. By illuminating the hidden mechanisms of our brain, You Are Not So Smart empowers readers to recognize and navigate their own mental landscapes more effectively.

Prepare to have your mind opened and your perceptions challenged as you discover the science of self-delusion. Whether you're a psychology enthusiast, a self-improvement seeker, or simply curious about the workings of the human mind, You Are Not So Smart is an essential read. It is a compelling reminder that while we may not be as rational as we think, acknowledging our imperfections is the first step towards a more mindful and informed life.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

You Are Not So Smart by David McRaney is praised for being engaging, funny, and deeply insightful about the limitations and quirks of human consciousness. Reviewers appreciate its witty and accessible approach to psychology, highlighting its practical insights and entertaining anecdotes. The book is recommended for its ability to make complex concepts understandable and relatable, ultimately helping readers gain a better understanding of their own behaviour and thought processes.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781851689392

Publisher: Oneworld Publications

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 04 October 2012

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Oneworld Publications

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 0g

Pages: 320

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About the Author

Self-described psychology nerd David McRaney is a journalist and twice-recipient of the William Randolph Hearst Award. He runs the popular blog Youarenotsosmart.com. This, his first book, was a run-away success in the US; Penguin US have already commissioned the sequel for a six-figure advance.

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