The Value of Books on Decision Making and Wisdom for Younger Generations

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The author reflects on the purpose of their book, 'Wild Problems,' which was intended to be a guide for decision-making. They hoped that older generations would share it with their grandchildren to prevent them from making the same mistakes. However, the author questions if such books truly have an impact on young readers. They mention another book, 'Excellent Advice for Living Wisdom,' which they enjoyed and found true. Overall, the author believes that these books create a sense of learning and can be beneficial.

Psychologist and writer Adam Mastroianni says our minds are like the keep of a castle protecting our deepest held values and beliefs from even the most skilled attacks. The only problem with this design for self-preservation is that it also can keep out wisdom that might be both useful and true. Mastroianni's summary of the problem is "you can't reach the brain through the ears." Listen as Mastroianni talks with EconTalk's Russ Roberts about the implication of this view of mind for teaching, learning, and our daily interactions with the people around us.