Psychology – Page 6 – Ryan's Book Blog

Everybody Lies

July 22, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in 2017, Everybody Lies is an attempt to understand people through “big data,” specifically through internet searches. The author makes the point that people lie on surveys and even to themselves. However, they don’t lie when they are searching for what they want on the net.

My Thoughts

This was a fun concept and the author did a great job with his arguments. He makes several references and jabs that show he left leaning political stance but I believe he did a fair job with the conclusions from data he presented.

Of course, you can lie with data pretty easily and I have some quibbles with some of the generalizations made through some of the datasets but there is bias in everyone.

Recommendation

I really enjoyed the book and I keep bringing it up in conversation so it must of had an impact.

Beyond Order

July 4, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in March of 2021, “Beyond Order: 12 More Rules for Life” is the sequel to Jordan Peterson’s bestselling book, 12 Rules for Life. In this book, Peterson offers twelve new principles for navigating the complexities of life and finding meaning in a rapidly changing world. Drawing on a wide range of sources, including psychology, philosophy, and religion, Peterson explores topics such as the importance of responsibility, the dangers of ideologues, and the role of creativity in human flourishing. He also delves into personal experiences, including his struggles with addiction and his journey to recovery. Throughout the book, Peterson emphasizes the importance of individual agency and the need to take responsibility for one’s own life, while also acknowledging the challenges and limitations that we all face.

My Thoughts

I really enjoyed this book and, in particular, the reasons for fidelity in marriage and the defense of existing institutions. Dr. Peterson gives such a great argument for following these rules that it becomes hard to argue the point.

Recommendation

Great book. Worth multiple reads.

The Happiness Advantage

June 9, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published back in 2010, “The Happiness Advantage: The Seven Principles of Positive Psychology That Fuel Success and Performance at Work” is a self-help book by Shawn Achor. The book argues that happiness is not just a byproduct of success, but rather a precursor to it. Achor presents seven principles that he believes can help individuals cultivate a positive mindset and improve their performance in various areas of life, including work, relationships, and health. These principles include focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses, cultivating optimism and gratitude, and building strong social connections. Achor draws on research from the fields of positive psychology and neuroscience to support his ideas, and includes practical exercises and strategies for readers to apply in their own lives.

My Thoughts

I believe I read this some time ago and I’ve read a dozen others like it in the time since. However, they all have a few things in common. 1) They all agree it is better to be happy than to be otherwise and 2) you can be happy no matter what is going on in your life. The key is really being thankful for what you have and in being of service to others.

However, this book was one of the first that studied happiness from a psychological perspective. They tried the science of what being in a good mood can do for your memory, cognitive abilities, creativity, and so on. In short, it helps.

Recommendation

A good book and helpful for inspiring.

How to be Perfect

May 17, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

From Michael Schur the producer of “The Good Place” came “How to Be Perfect” which was published in January of 2022. This book goes over some of the philosophical research Mr. Schur did for “The Good Place” and dips its toe in most philosophical studies.

My Thoughts

The author does a good job in keeping you engaged with jokes and so on. However, there was a few too many jokes which made it feel like a sitcom. (I guess that shouldn’t have been a surprise.)

Recommendation

I liked it.

How to Change your Mind

April 26, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published back in 2015, How to Change your Mind is a book trying to get a handle on consciousness as a whole and what goes into being a conscious creature through the use of Psychedelics.

My Thoughts

The whole idea of drugs that can suspend your notion of self is a little terrifying but it is interesting to see how they are being used. I’m not ready to sign up for a test run but I’m certainly interested in where the science is going.

Recommendation

An interesting read

A Hunter-Gatherer’s Guide to the 21st Century

April 5, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in September of 2021, A Hunter-Gatherer’s Guide to the 21st Century is the story of how modern life isn’t so good for us.

My Thoughts

The authors are evolutionary biologists and they had some interesting takes on life as a whole. While I agree that potato chips aren’t the best for me they certainly are sooo good and that makes my lizard brain happy. However, I think it is too easy to conflate happiness, wellness, and fitness. They are certainly linked but just because our ancestors were fit, toned, and tanned, doesn’t mean wouldn’t enjoy a nice hot bath and a good long sleep on a mattress.

Recommendation

Great read.

Origin: A Genetic History of the Americas

March 17, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Origin: A Genetic History of the Americas was published February of 2022. It discusses the first inhabitants of the Americas and gives several theories of how they populated the continents.

My Thoughts

Great book and very thought provoking. It makes me wonder how much civilization we could find just off the coast of Alaska… The book talks about different waves of inhabitants based on the information we have so far. I wonder what more we can learn as we get new information.

Recommendation

Great read.

The Leadership Style of Jesus

February 28, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in 1986, “The Leadership Style of Jesus” is a non-fiction book written by historian and theologian Dr. Michael Youssef that explores the leadership principles demonstrated by Jesus Christ during his time on earth. The book draws on the teachings of the Bible and the example of Jesus to provide practical insights into effective leadership, emphasizing the importance of servant leadership, humility, and a deep commitment to the well-being of others. Through a combination of biblical analysis and real-world examples, the book offers valuable guidance for anyone seeking to become a more effective leader, whether in business, politics, or any other area of life.

My Thoughts

Honestly, I didn’t like this book. The concepts are fine but I feel like the author goes well beyond the mark to make points. There were a few places where it was obvious he hadn’t done his research and was just speaking out of religious prejudice.

Recommendation

There were a few gems but I was disappointed in the read.

The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work

January 26, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work was published in 1999 by Dr. John Gottman who was the main name in marriage counseling before it got all touchy feely.

My Thoughts

This book was a joy to re-read. Mostly to freshen up on a bunch of things I don’t do well. This book needs to be on the shelves of every married man.

Recommendation

Phenomenal book!

The Body

January 8, 2022 by Ryan Leave a Comment

Background

Published in 2019, “The Body: A Guide for Occupants” is written by author and physician Dr. Bill Bryson. The book is a fascinating exploration of the human body, covering everything from the digestive system and the immune system to the brain and the reproductive system. Drawing on the latest scientific research as well as historical and cultural perspectives, Bryson takes readers on a journey through the many wonders and complexities of the human body. He also delves into some of the major health challenges facing humanity today, such as obesity and antibiotic resistance.

My Thoughts

Bill Bryson did an excellent job of going through the body parts and inserting humor along the way. Mr. Bryson is not a doctor (which my wife correctly pointed out) but a researcher who brought it all under the same topic. I believe he did a good job.

Recommendation

It was worth the time and effort to get through it.