‘Hyperguides’ for hyper results
On the bookshelf
Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking
In his latest bestseller, Blink, Malcolm Gladwell uses a fascinating collection of examples to illustrate the concept of “thin slicing.” The term “thin slicing” is shorthand for the rapid, subconscious, intuitive judgments all humans make. It’s that “gut feeling” you get about certain people, places, and situations. And, according to Gladwell, it can result in more effective decision making.
Not all thin slicing proves beneficial, however. Gladwell cites the example of Warren G. Harding—who is widely regarded as one of the worst Presidents in U.S. history. Why was he elected? Gladwell asserts that it was a case of thin slicing gone bad. The American public voted for Harding based on their “first impression” of him. They automatically—and incorrectly—equated his good looks with integrity, intelligence, and character.
From the amazing to the tragic, Gladwell’s examples are thought-provoking. Ultimately, we don’t believe that thin slicing can replace careful analysis in every case. But it doesn’t hurt to be aware of your own personal assumptions and prejudices—and how they may affect your rapid cognition.
Although
Gladwell doesn’t spell out any sure-fire “answers,” he will get you
thinking about, well, thinking in a whole new way.
Purchase this book to read for yourself.
