Awe: The Transformative Power of Everyday Wonder

Awe is a groundbreaking exploration into the history, psychology, and meaning of awe, written by social psychologist Dacher Keltner. He argues that happiness comes down to finding awe, which allows us to collaborate with others, open our minds to wonder, and see the deep patterns of life. The book includes intensely moving, deeply personal stories of awe from people all over the world and is a field guide for how to uncover everyday wonder as a vital force within our lives.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 03 January 2023
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Awe is a transformative experience that has the power to organize our experiences, observations, thoughts, and hopes in a powerful new way. It is a profound emotion that allows us to collaborate with others, open our minds to wonder, and see the deep patterns of life. In his new book, "Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and the Power of Transcendence," social psychologist Dacher Keltner presents a radical investigation into this elusive emotion. Drawing on his own scientific research into how awe transforms our brains and bodies, alongside an examination of awe across history, culture, and within his own life during a period of immense grief, Keltner shows us how cultivating wonder leads us to appreciate what is most humane in our human nature.

The book includes intensely moving, deeply personal stories of awe from people all over the world, including doctors, veterans, environmentalists, poets, indigenous scholars, hospice workers, ministers, and midwives. At turns radical and profound, "Awe" is our field guide for how to uncover everyday wonder as a vital force within our lives.

Keltner's research has shown that awe is a universal emotion that is experienced by people of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds. It is triggered by a wide range of experiences, such as natural beauty, artistic expression, religious or spiritual experiences, and moments of profound connection with others. Awe has the ability to shift our perspective, broaden our horizons, and deepen our sense of empathy and compassion.

One of the key insights of "Awe" is that awe is not just a fleeting emotion, but a powerful force that can shape our lives and relationships. When we experience awe, we are more likely to be open to new ideas, to take risks, and to be more creative and innovative. Awe can also help us to overcome obstacles and setbacks, as it inspires us to think outside the box and to find new solutions to complex problems.

In addition to its scientific and psychological insights, "Awe" is also a deeply personal and inspiring book. Keltner shares his own experiences of awe, including moments of profound connection with nature, moments of artistic inspiration, and moments of profound grief and loss. These stories are powerful reminders of the human capacity for wonder and transcendence, and of the importance of cultivating awe in our daily lives.

Overall, "Awe" is a groundbreaking exploration of the science, psychology, and meaning of awe. It is a must-read for anyone who seeks to deepen their understanding of the human experience and to cultivate more wonder and awe in their own lives. Whether you are a scientist, a philosopher, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone who enjoys exploring the mysteries of the world, this book will inspire and challenge you in equal measure.

Weight: 552g
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241603901