How to Read Like You Mean It

Kyle Conway's book "The Art of Communication in a Polarized World" encourages readers to embrace confusion as a part of understanding and meaningful exchange, proposing strategies for reading that will allow individuals to gain access to new and meaningful worlds through uncertainty.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 168 pages
Publication date: 12 September 2023
Publisher: AU Press

In this insightful and concise volume, Kyle Conway, the author of "The Art of Communication in a Polarized World," delves into the profound question of how we can cultivate a greater openness to others and ideas that may initially evoke fear or uncertainty. Conway argues that our resistance to ideas we do not fully comprehend hinders our ability to engage in meaningful and insightful exchanges, whether it be between a reader and a text or between individuals. Drawing upon the insights of hermeneutics scholar Paul Ricoeur, Conway explores the recurring paradox of miscommunication that often leads to deeper understanding. She proposes strategies for reading that encourage individuals to relinquish the illusion of certainty and embrace the inherent ambiguity of the written word.

Through elegant and compelling prose, Conway introduces readers to the notion that it is through the embrace of uncertainty that we gain access to new and profound realms—the worlds of texts and other individuals. She encourages us to approach reading with an open mind, seeking to unravel the layers of meaning and interpretation that lie within the text. Conway emphasizes the importance of active engagement with the text, questioning, analyzing, and reflecting on its content to deepen our understanding and foster meaningful connections.

Moreover, Conway challenges us to expand our horizons beyond our own experiences and perspectives. She encourages us to engage with texts from different cultures, time periods, and genres, broadening our understanding of the world and fostering empathy and compassion for others. By embracing the complexities and uncertainties of the written word, we can cultivate a greater sense of curiosity, creativity, and intellectual growth.

In conclusion, "The Art of Communication in a Polarized World" offers a valuable roadmap for navigating the complexities of contemporary communication. Through its insightful analysis and practical strategies, Conway empowers individuals to cultivate a greater openness to others and ideas, fostering meaningful connections and promoting a more inclusive and intellectually rich society.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 228 x 153 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781771993746