Paul Bloom

This book takes a critical look at Sigmund Freud and his contributions to psychoanalysis. Drawing on rarely consulted archives, the author asserts that Freud was a man who blundered tragically in his dealings with patients, never cured anyone, and advanced his career through falsifying case histories and betraying mentors. This monumental biographical study debunks the myth of Freud and his legacy.

Discover how to make the most of your time with "Four Thousand Weeks", a guide to time management that turns the modern obsession with productivity on its head. Author Oliver Burkeman draws on the insights of philosophers, psychologists, and spiritual teachers to create a practical and profound approach to constructing a meaningful life by embracing the finite nature of our time. Learn how to break free from the anxiety and pressure of our current approach to time management and make intentional choices to create a more fulfilling life.

A former pool champion, "Fast" Eddie Felson, is back on the circuit and ready to take on a new generation of competitors. But to win, he must adapt to the unfamiliar game of nine-ball. The Color of Money is a gripping novel about high stakes games and the pressures of competition. This book is the source of the classic film starring Paul Newman.

Follow the rise of Beth Harmon, an unremarkable orphan who discovers a hidden talent for chess. As she hones her skills, she becomes a fierce competitor on the professional circuit, yet isolation and temptation threaten to derail her success. Fast-paced and satisfying, The Queen's Gambit is a thrilling journey that culminates in an elegant checkmate.

Discover the history of human goodness and learn how crises have shaped our moral thinking in The Kindness of Strangers. Psychologist Michael McCullough offers a fresh perspective on how humans evolved to care about others, dispelling previous theories about an evolved moral sense. From the nomadic age to modern challenges like climate change and nationalism, McCullough reveals how moral invention and reason drove humanity's survival. Gain insight into adapting our moral thinking and surviving future challenges.

Explore the origins and evolution of the Western mind and its impact on the world in The WEIRDest People in the World. By delving into global psychological diversity, Harvard professor Joseph Henrich illuminates the cultural transformations that led to highly individualistic, nonconformist societies like ours. Drawing on research in anthropology, psychology, economics, and evolutionary biology, Henrich maps the shifts in family structures, marriage, and religion that laid the foundation for the modern world. This highly engaging and provocative investigation reveals the fascinating interplay between culture, institutions, and psychology that shapes human history.

This insightful book, A Theory of System Justification, explores why we defend social systems that cause misery and injustice. John Jost argues that our need for certainty, security, and social acceptance motivates us to protect the status quo - even when it harms others. With 25 years of research, Jost provides an accessible account of his groundbreaking theory that explains deep social and political issues, as well as intimate ones like relationships and self-worth. This book offers valuable insights for those seeking social justice and meaningful change.

A non-poker player with a Ph.D. in psychology becomes a professional poker player with the help of a Poker Hall of Fame inductee. Through her journey, she gains insights on life, human behavior, and how to distinguish between what can and can't be controlled. Along the way, she wins big, but more importantly, she learns that accepting luck and focusing on how to play bad cards can lead to a successful outcome.

Fifth Business is a mesmerizing story of a man's return from the horrors of war, where memory, history, and myth converge. With a mystical and perhaps dangerous personality, Ramsay exerts a profound influence on those around him. Innocuous events from his past ultimately prove to hold surprising power. This remarkable novel challenges our understanding of reality and opens our eyes to the wondrous aspects of life.