Lies We Live By : The Art of Self-Deception

Rating:
Summary: Broad, deep and accessible
Review: Don't be fooled by the catchy title - this isn't a pop-psych wander through commonly-held delusions. Blending science, philosophy and psychology, Eduardo Giannetti makes a rigorous yet accessible attempt to explain precisely what goes on in our minds when we (try to) deceive ourselves, why we do it, and its consequences. Only in the fourth and final chapter does he really apply this theory to intra- and interpersonal behaviour and draw some interesting conclusions for the rule of law. Giannetti is an historian of ideas, and it shows. The scope of his research for this book is enormous. But for all the depth and breadth of its inquiry, you don't have to be a student of philosophy to appreciate it. A passing acquaintance with epistemology - especially Descartes - will smooth your path through the first two chapters, but Giannetti's skill for cogent argument, his clear examples and comprehensive end notes are enormously helpful. You come away feeling like you've had a crash-course in neuroscience, evolution, psychology and ethics, and with a long list of books you want to buy.

Rating:
Summary: Broad, deep and accessible
Review: Don't be fooled by the catchy title - this isn't a pop-psych wander through commonly-held delusions. Blending science, philosophy and psychology, Eduardo Giannetti makes a rigorous yet accessible attempt to explain precisely what goes on in our minds when we (try to) deceive ourselves, why we do it, and its consequences. Only in the fourth and final chapter does he really apply this theory to intra- and interpersonal behaviour and draw some interesting conclusions for the rule of law. Giannetti is an historian of ideas, and it shows. The scope of his research for this book is enormous. But for all the depth and breadth of its inquiry, you don't have to be a student of philosophy to appreciate it. A passing acquaintance with epistemology - especially Descartes - will smooth your path through the first two chapters, but Giannetti's skill for cogent argument, his clear examples and comprehensive end notes are enormously helpful. You come away feeling like you've had a crash-course in neuroscience, evolution, psychology and ethics, and with a long list of books you want to buy.