37. How Do You Know if People Don’t Like You?

This work by Hippolyte Taine is a comprehensive and detailed historical analysis of the French Revolution. Written from a conservative French perspective, it approaches the Revolution as a 'pathology' rather than a traditional history. Taine examines the Revolution through his unique method, which involves understanding the French spirit and its historical context. He argues that the Revolution was not a promotion of liberty but rather a transfer of absolute power to more illiberal hands. The book is part of Taine's larger work, 'The Origins of Contemporary France,' and it delves into the chaotic atmosphere of France during the late 18th century, highlighting themes such as anarchy, civil unrest, food shortages, and the aspirations of the lower classes.

Published in 1859, 'Self-Help' by Samuel Smiles is a landmark in the self-help genre. The book advocates for personal responsibility and the virtues of hard work, industry, and character. It uses numerous biographical examples, including those of George Stephenson and Josiah Wedgwood, to illustrate how individuals can achieve success through their own efforts. The book was highly influential in Victorian Britain and beyond, selling over a quarter of a million copies by the time of Smiles' death in 1904. It has been translated into many languages and remains a significant text in the history of self-help literature.

First published in 1936, 'How to Win Friends and Influence People' by Dale Carnegie is a timeless guide to improving interpersonal skills. The book is divided into four main sections: Six Ways to Make People Like You, Twelve Ways to Win People to Your Way of Thinking, and Nine Ways to Change People Without Giving Offense or Arousing Resentment. Carnegie's principles emphasize the importance of genuine interest in others, active listening, and avoiding criticism and argument. The book offers practical advice on how to build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and influence others by aligning their self-interest with yours. It has been a cornerstone of personal development and business success for generations.

This book, written by Dr. David D. Burns, outlines scientifically proven techniques based on CBT to help readers overcome negative thoughts and develop a positive outlook on life. It addresses common mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, guilt, and low self-esteem by identifying and correcting cognitive distortions. The book provides practical advice on recognizing and changing negative thought patterns, handling criticism, building self-esteem, and improving overall mental well-being.

The book challenges the common perception that millionaires live in affluent neighborhoods and instead shows that many wealthy individuals live modestly in middle-class and blue-collar areas. The authors identify seven common traits among these millionaires, including being dedicated to a vision, making appropriate career decisions, valuing financial security over social standing, and efficiently spending time and money. The book also distinguishes between 'Under Accumulators of Wealth' (UAWs) and 'Prodigious Accumulators of Wealth' (PAWs), emphasizing the differences in their spending and saving habits.

In *Think Like a Freak*, Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner offer a blueprint for thinking more productively and creatively. They explore topics from business to philanthropy, using captivating storytelling and unconventional analysis to retrain your brain. The book teaches readers to question conventional wisdom, understand incentives, and appreciate the benefits of quitting when necessary.