Judged: The Value of Being Misunderstood

Ziyad Marar's book "Judgment: A Necessary Evil" explores the importance of judgment in valuing ourselves and others, and suggests that it can lead to moments of generosity and forgiveness. He draws upon psychology, philosophy, TV, film, poetry, and literature to reveal a world where hope can blossom.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 11 July 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Judgment is a pervasive aspect of human interaction, and it can have profound consequences for individuals and society as a whole. One careless tweet or image can destroy a career or ruin a reputation, and the fear of judgment can lead to self-censorship and social isolation. However, judgment is also an essential tool for evaluating and assessing others, and it plays a crucial role in our ability to form relationships and navigate the complexities of social life.

In his book, "Judgment: A Sensitive and Creative Exploration," Ziyad Marar argues that judgment is not only inevitable but also necessary for human flourishing. He suggests that we need judgment to value ourselves and others, and that we cannot live fully without the peaks and troughs of judgment. Marar draws upon a wide range of sources, including psychology, philosophy, TV, film, poetry, and literature, to explore the complexities of judgment and its impact on our lives.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of reaching out and connecting with others. Marar argues that judgment is not just about evaluating others but also about recognizing our shared humanity and the potential for empathy and understanding. He suggests that we can cultivate a more generous and forgiving approach to judgment by learning to see the cracks in the world as opportunities for growth and connection rather than as dead ends.

Another important theme of the book is the idea that hope can blossom even in the face of judgment and adversity. Marar argues that judgment can be a source of shame and guilt, but it can also be a catalyst for growth and transformation. He suggests that we can cultivate hope by recognizing the limitations of our own judgment and by seeking out new perspectives and experiences that challenge our assumptions and biases.

While there are no easy answers to the challenges of judgment, Marar offers several insights and strategies for navigating the complex terrain of social interaction. He encourages us to be more mindful of our own judgmental tendencies and to seek out opportunities for self-reflection and growth. He also suggests that we can cultivate a more inclusive and compassionate society by learning to listen to and respect the perspectives of others, even when they differ from our own.

In conclusion, judgment is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that plays a crucial role in our lives. While it can have negative consequences, it is also essential for human flourishing and for building healthy relationships and communities. By learning to approach judgment with mindfulness and generosity, we can cultivate a more inclusive and compassionate society that values diversity and embraces the potential for growth and connection.

Weight: 290g
Dimension: 131 x 198 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350113169