David McRaney
David McRaney is an American journalist, author, and lecturer known for his work on psychology and self-delusion. He is the author of books such as 'You Are Not So Smart' and 'You Are Now Less Dumb', which explore cognitive biases and logical fallacies.
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. You Are Not So Smart
Why You Have Too Many Friends on Facebook, Why Your Memory Is Mostly Fiction, and 46 Other Ways You're Deluding Yourself
The book explores the various cognitive biases and logical fallacies that influence human thinking and decision-making, often leading people to believe they are more rational and informed than they actually are. Through a series of engaging anecdotes and scientific studies, it reveals how these mental shortcuts and misconceptions shape our perceptions, memories, and behaviors, ultimately highlighting the gap between how we think we think and how we actually do. By uncovering these psychological tendencies, the book encourages readers to become more aware of their own mental processes and to approach their beliefs and decisions with greater skepticism and humility.
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2. How Minds Change
The Surprising Science of Belief, Opinion, and Persuasion
The book explores the fascinating science behind how and why people change their minds, delving into the psychological and social factors that influence belief systems. It examines the mechanisms of persuasion, the role of cognitive dissonance, and the impact of social dynamics on personal convictions. Through engaging stories and research, the book reveals that changing minds is not just about presenting facts but understanding the emotional and cognitive processes that underpin belief formation and transformation. It offers insights into how empathy, curiosity, and open dialogue can facilitate meaningful change in perspectives.
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3. You Are Now Less Dumb
How to Conquer Mob Mentality, How to Buy Happiness, and All the Other Ways to Outsmart Yourself
A witty tour of the mental shortcuts and illusions that quietly steer everyday life, this book explains how perception, memory, and reasoning routinely mislead us. Drawing on experiments and engaging stories, it reveals biases like confirmation bias, confabulation, the backfire effect, and groupthink, showing how they shape choices, beliefs, and relationships. With practical strategies to test assumptions, seek disconfirming evidence, and adopt better habits of thought, it offers tools to spot blind spots, make sounder decisions, and become a little less wrong over time.
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