In 'Tribal,' Michael Morris argues that our psychology is wired by evolution in three distinctive ways: the peer instinct to conform, the hero instinct to give to the group, and the ancestor instinct to follow prior generations. These tribal instincts enable us to share knowledge, work as a team, and transmit cultural knowledge. Morris uses deep research, current and historical events, and stories from business and politics to show how these instincts can elevate performance, heal rifts, and drive cultural change. The book challenges conventional wisdom and offers a hopeful vision for collective change.
Sally Rooney's "Intermezzo" is a short story that delves into the complexities of relationships and the search for meaning in life. Rooney's signature style is evident in the story's sharp wit and insightful observations about human nature. The characters are relatable and flawed, their struggles and triumphs resonating with readers. The story's exploration of themes of love, loss, and identity is both poignant and thought-provoking. Rooney's ability to capture the nuances of human emotion is evident in every line, making "Intermezzo" a captivating and unforgettable read.
In 'Dopamine Nation,' Dr. Anna Lembke delves into the scientific discoveries that explain why overindulgence in high-reward, high-dopamine stimuli leads to pain. The book combines personal narratives from her clinical practice with the latest psychology research to illustrate how to find contentment and connectedness by keeping dopamine in check. Lembke discusses the impact of modern addictions, such as those related to smartphones, food, and other behaviors, and provides strategies for managing consumption and transforming lives. The book emphasizes the importance of balancing the science of desire with the wisdom of recovery[1][3][5].
In this book, Keith Payne explores the psychological roots of America's political divide. He argues that the fundamental source of our division is a near-universal human tendency to believe that people who are different from us are irrational or foolish, and that we flexibly rationalize ideas to see ourselves as good people. Payne uses his research and personal experiences to provide insights into why talking about politics is so hard and how we can begin to mend the personal bonds that are fraying due to political differences. The book aims to help readers understand and be understood by people with different viewpoints, encouraging compassion and better engagement in political debates[2][4][5].
In 'The Broken Ladder,' Keith Payne explores the profound effects of inequality on human psychology and behavior. He argues that the social comparisons we make can alter how we see the world, and that feeling poor, rather than just being poor, has significant consequences. Payne blends personal observations with recent research in psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral economics to detail how inequality shapes our biases, habits, and ideas. The book covers topics such as why people in poor societies often have more children, how inequality affects political beliefs and workplace performance, and how it influences stress levels and health outcomes. Payne also discusses how inequality can lead to greater political divisions, higher rates of social maladies, and different moral perceptions of justice and fairness.
The Worlds I See is a deeply personal and scientifically insightful memoir by Dr. Fei-Fei Li. The book chronicles her journey from a young immigrant in America to becoming a leading figure in the field of artificial intelligence. It provides a riveting story of a scientist at work, offering a clear explanation of what AI is and how it came to be. The memoir is emotionally raw and intellectually uncompromising, highlighting Dr. Li's passion for science, her overcoming of societal barriers, and her advocacy for a human-centric, ethical approach to AI. The book also delves into her personal struggles, her gratitude for mentors, and her commitment to using AI to improve the human condition.
The Molecule of More delves into the role of dopamine in human behavior, revealing how this neurotransmitter drives our desires, fuels creativity, and influences various aspects of life including love, business, addiction, and politics. The authors argue that dopamine is not just a 'pleasure molecule' but a chemical of anticipation and possibility, which explains why we often crave what we don’t have and why we are driven to pursue new and unexpected things. The book uses insights from psychology, neuroscience, and social studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of dopamine’s impact on the human condition.
Keith Payne (Good Reasonable People, The Broken Ladder) is a professor and author. Keith joins the Armchair Expert to discuss the effects of economic segregation, the roots of our current divisions, and how some people feel about dating others with opposite political views. Keith and Dax talk about the psychological immune system, the better-than-average effect, and how tribalism plays a role in people’s politics. Keith explains the geopolitical effects of the Mason-Dixon Line, how education levels can predict someone’s political affiliation, and the misconceptions of how income is effecting our politics.
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Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard 
