Summary: New York Post Best Book of 2016
Nothing could be farther from the truth, argues Yale researcher Paul Bloom. In Against Empathy, Bloom reveals empathy to be one of the leading motivators of inequality and immorality in society. Far from helping us to improve the lives of others, empathy is a capricious and irrational emotion that appeals to our narrow prejudices. It muddles our judgment and, ironically, often leads to cruelty. We are at our best when we are smart enough not to rely on it, but to draw instead upon a more distanced compassion. Basing his argument on groundbreaking scientific findings, Bloom makes the case that some of the worst decisions made by individuals and nations—who to give money to, when to go to war, how to respond to climate change, and who to imprison—are too often motivated by honest, yet misplaced, emotions. With precision and wit, he demonstrates how empathy distorts our judgment in every aspect of our lives, from philanthropy and charity to the justice system; from medical care and education to parenting and marriage. Without empathy, Bloom insists, our decisions would be clearer, fairer, and—yes—ultimately more moral. Brilliantly argued, urgent and humane, Against Empathy shows us that, when it comes to both major policy decisions and the choices we make in our everyday lives, limiting our impulse toward empathy is often the most compassionate choice we can make.
Angie’s comments: Paul Bloom obviously doesn’t mind courting controversy. You
may agree or disagree with the points in Against
Empathy, but it will definitely make you think.
Recommended for readers who want to see a different
look at a touchy subject.
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February 28, 2017
Against Empathy
February 27, 2017
Candle for a Corpse
Summary: Who would guess that a simple Advent wreath would light the
way to solving a Christmastide mystery in a small English village? Well, when
Berdie Elliott—the local vicar's wife and former investigative reporter—gets
the scent, anything can happen. Though Berdie's husband often disapproves, her
divine gift of sorting truth from lies puts her in the stew. Along with her
best friend, Lillie, Berdie unwraps far more than Christmas presents when an
Advent gathering at the vicarage goes awry, and murder rocks the village.
Lively newcomers, secret identities, a clandestine wedding, and a dissenting
constable add to the adventure of unraveling the mystery that Berdie—to the
delight of the entire village—finally ties up like a bright Christmas bow. Tea
and biscuits anyone?
Angie’s comments: This is the first in a series featuring Berdie Elliott. It
is a lovely cozy mystery, with interesting characters who appear drawn from
real life. There is some religion, due to Berdie’s husband’s role as the vicar,
but it isn’t preached.
Recommended for readers who want a lovely
British village cozy mystery.
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