Jonathan Haidt
Jonathan Haidt is a social psychologist and professor of ethical leadership at New York University's Stern School of Business. He is known for his research on the psychology of morality and the moral foundations theory.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. The Righteous Mind
Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion
The book explores the psychological underpinnings of morality, arguing that human moral reasoning is primarily driven by intuitive processes rather than rational deliberation. It delves into the evolutionary origins of moral behavior, suggesting that moral intuitions evolved to enhance group cohesion and cooperation. The author presents a framework of six moral foundations—care, fairness, loyalty, authority, sanctity, and liberty—that vary in emphasis across different cultures and political ideologies. By examining these foundations, the book seeks to explain why people with differing moral perspectives often find it difficult to understand each other, ultimately advocating for greater empathy and open-mindedness in moral and political discourse.
The 5602nd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
2. The Coddling Of The American Mind
How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure
The book explores the cultural shifts in American society that have led to increased anxiety, fragility, and a lack of resilience among young people. It argues that well-intentioned overprotection by parents and institutions has contributed to a generation less equipped to handle adversity and differing viewpoints. The authors identify three untruths—fragility, emotional reasoning, and us-versus-them thinking—that they believe are undermining mental health and intellectual development. They advocate for a return to principles that promote resilience, critical thinking, and open dialogue.
The 5985th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
3. The Anxious Generation
How Social Media and Technology are Reshaping Our Minds and Lives
In **The Anxious Generation**, Jonathan Haidt explores the alarming rise in mental health issues among adolescents since the early 2010s. He examines how the shift from a "play-based childhood" to a "phone-based childhood" has impacted the social and neurological development of young people. Haidt discusses various factors contributing to this crisis, such as sleep deprivation, social media addiction, and increased social comparison. He highlights the particular vulnerabilities of girls and the tendency of boys to retreat into virtual worlds. The book offers insights into how parents, educators, and society can address these challenges and foster healthier environments for children to grow and thrive.
The 10383rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon
