Kevin Simler and Robin Hanson Books
Kevin Simler is a writer and software engineer known for his work on human behavior and social dynamics. Robin Hanson is an associate professor of economics at George Mason University and a researcher at the Oxford Future of Humanity Institute, recognized for his work on prediction markets and social theory.
Known for: The Elephant in the Brain: Hidden Motives in Everyday Life
Books by Kevin Simler and Robin Hanson
The Elephant in the Brain: Hidden Motives in Everyday Life
The Elephant in the Brain explores the hidden motives behind human behavior, arguing that much of what we do is driven by self-interest and social signaling rather than the reasons we consciously claim. The authors use insights from evolutionary psychology, economics, and neuroscience to reveal how our brains are wired to deceive ourselves and others, shaping everything from politics and religion to art and charity.
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The Nature of Self-Deception
If our actions are shaped by self-interest, why don’t we simply admit it? Because honesty about selfish motives tends to backfire socially. Humans evolved as cooperative yet competitive creatures living in tight groups. To survive, we needed to look generous, loyal, and fair—even when we weren’t. Th...
From The Elephant in the Brain: Hidden Motives in Everyday Life
Evolutionary Foundations
To understand hidden motives, we must begin with evolution. Our ancestors lived amid fierce social and environmental competition. Success wasn’t just about staying alive—it was about attracting allies, mates, and followers. Evolution rewarded behaviors that signaled fitness traits: strength, intelli...
From The Elephant in the Brain: Hidden Motives in Everyday Life
About Kevin Simler and Robin Hanson
Kevin Simler is a writer and software engineer known for his work on human behavior and social dynamics. Robin Hanson is an associate professor of economics at George Mason University and a researcher at the Oxford Future of Humanity Institute, recognized for his work on prediction markets and socia...
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Kevin Simler is a writer and software engineer known for his work on human behavior and social dynamics. Robin Hanson is an associate professor of economics at George Mason University and a researcher at the Oxford Future of Humanity Institute, recognized for his work on prediction markets and socia...
Kevin Simler is a writer and software engineer known for his work on human behavior and social dynamics. Robin Hanson is an associate professor of economics at George Mason University and a researcher at the Oxford Future of Humanity Institute, recognized for his work on prediction markets and social theory.
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Kevin Simler is a writer and software engineer known for his work on human behavior and social dynamics. Robin Hanson is an associate professor of economics at George Mason University and a researcher at the Oxford Future of Humanity Institute, recognized for his work on prediction markets and social theory.
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