Enigma of Reason: A New Theory of Human Understanding

Hugo Mercier and Dan Sperber's book explores how reason works, how it doesn't, and how it evolved to help us develop as social beings. It argues that reason is more likely to confirm things that we want to be true or which we already believe, and provides the answer to why it exists.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 05 April 2018
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Reason, the defining characteristic of humanity, has long puzzled psychologists. While it is widely believed to be the source of our rationality and intelligence, studies have shown that humans often exhibit irrational behavior. In their groundbreaking book, "The Enigma of Reason," cognitive psychologists Hugo Mercier and Dan Sperber delve into the intricate workings of reason, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and evolutionary origins.

Mercier and Sperber argue that reason is not a flawless superpower but rather a flawed tool that evolved to help us develop as social beings. They explore how reason works in our daily lives, highlighting its limitations and biases. For example, reason tends to confirm our existing beliefs and desires, leading us to ignore evidence that contradicts our assumptions. This can result in irrational decision-making and behavior.

The book also delves into the evolutionary origins of reason. Mercier and Sperber argue that reason developed as a survival mechanism, allowing humans to make rational decisions in complex environments. However, the evolution of reason also led to the development of other cognitive biases and limitations, such as the confirmation bias and the overconfidence bias.

Despite its flaws, reason remains an essential tool for human development. Mercier and Sperber argue that by understanding the limitations and biases of reason, we can develop strategies to counteract them and make more rational decisions. The book provides practical insights into how we can improve our reasoning skills, such as recognizing our own biases and seeking out evidence that contradicts our assumptions.

"The Enigma of Reason" is a thought-provoking and influential book that will have a significant impact on our understanding of ourselves and our behavior. It challenges our assumptions about the nature of reason and provides a deeper understanding of the cognitive mechanisms that drive our thoughts and actions. Whether you are a psychologist, philosopher, or simply interested in human behavior, this book is a must-read.

Weight: 298g
Dimension: 131 x 196 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241957851