Is It Possible To Improve Your Personality? The Science Says Yes. Here’s How To Do It. | Olga Khazan

Joseph Henrich's "Weird" explores the cultural origins of Western individualism and its impact on human behavior and societal development. The book examines the unique cultural traits of Western societies, such as individualism, universalism, and trust in strangers, and how these traits have shaped their economic and political systems. Henrich argues that these cultural traits are not universal but rather are specific to certain societies, particularly those in the West. He explores the historical and evolutionary factors that have contributed to the development of these traits, highlighting the role of cultural transmission and learning. The book examines the implications of these cultural traits for understanding human behavior and societal development, suggesting that they have had a profound impact on the world. It offers a unique perspective on the cultural diversity of human societies and the importance of understanding cultural context in shaping human behavior. Henrich's work has been influential in the field of cultural evolution, contributing to our understanding of the complex interplay between biology and culture.

In 'Daring Greatly,' Brené Brown delves into the topics of vulnerability, shame, and courage. The book, inspired by a quote from Theodore Roosevelt's 'Citizenship in a Republic' speech, argues that vulnerability is essential for living a wholehearted life. Brown discusses how vulnerability is often misunderstood as weakness, but it is actually a sign of courage. She provides insights from her research on how vulnerability affects men and women differently and offers practical advice on overcoming shame and embracing vulnerability in personal and professional life. The book emphasizes the importance of connection, shame resilience, and the distinction between guilt and shame.

In 'Quiet', Susan Cain presents a comprehensive argument that modern Western culture misunderstands and undervalues the traits and capabilities of introverted people. She charts the rise of the 'Extrovert Ideal' and explores how it permeates various aspects of society, including workplaces, schools, and social interactions. Cain draws on research from biology, psychology, neuroscience, and evolution to demonstrate that introversion is common, normal, and valuable. The book offers advice for introverts on functioning in an extrovert-dominated culture and advocates for changes to support and recognize the contributions of introverts. It also distinguishes between introversion, shyness, and anti-social behavior, and highlights the unique strengths of introverts, such as deep thinking, persistence, and excellent negotiation skills.