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The Kindness of Strangers
How a Selfish Ape Invented a New Moral Code
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Why do we give a damn about strangers?
Why do we give a damn about strangers?
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Description
Altruism is unique to the human species. It is also one of the great evolutionary puzzles, and we may be on the brink of solving it. It turns out that, over the last 12,000 years, we have become more and more altruistic. This is despite the fact that, the majority of the time, our minds are still breathtakingly indifferent to the welfare of others.
In solving the enigma of generosity in a world of strangers, McCullough takes us on a sweeping history of society and science to warn that, if we are not careful, our instincts and sympathies have as much potential for harm as for good. The bad news is that we are not designed to be kind. The good news is that we can push ourselves to be kind anyway, together.
The Kindness of Strangers offers a transformative understanding of human nature, guiding us to recognise our potential for both kindness and harm, ultimately encouraging a collective push towards altruism.
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?
The Kindness of Strangers by Michael E. McCullough receives praise for its intriguing exploration of human kindness and social evolution. Critics highlight its thought-provoking analysis of our social behaviour, with McCullough offering a fresh perspective on why we act altruistically. The book is commended for its original approach and persuasive argument, with reviewers appreciating its depth and insightful explanations.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781786078186
Publisher: Oneworld Publications
Format: Hardback
Date Published: 03 September 2020
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Oneworld Publications
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 32.0mm
Width: 153.0mm
Height: 234.0mm
Weight: 250g
Pages: 368
About the Author
Michael McCullough is a Professor of Psychology at the University of California, San Diego. As an experimental psychologist interested in the social dimensions of human life, he conducts research on topics including altruism, forgiveness, gratitude, self-control, religion, and morality, for which he has received numerous distinctions. He is the author of a number of books including Beyond Revenge: The Evolution of the Forgiveness Instinct.
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