Robin Hanson Books
The Economist is a globally recognized weekly publication founded in 1843 in London, known for its authoritative analysis of international news, politics, economics, and business. Its editorial team produces a range of guides and books that distill complex subjects into accessible insights for professionals and readers worldwide.
Known for: The Elephant in the Brain: Hidden Motives in Everyday Life
Books by 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 Robin Hanson
The Economist is a globally recognized weekly publication founded in 1843 in London, known for its authoritative analysis of international news, politics, economics, and business. Its editorial team produces a range of guides and books that distill complex subjects into accessible insights for profe...
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The Economist is a globally recognized weekly publication founded in 1843 in London, known for its authoritative analysis of international news, politics, economics, and business. Its editorial team produces a range of guides and books that distill complex subjects into accessible insights for profe...
The Economist is a globally recognized weekly publication founded in 1843 in London, known for its authoritative analysis of international news, politics, economics, and business. Its editorial team produces a range of guides and books that distill complex subjects into accessible insights for professionals and readers worldwide.
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The Economist is a globally recognized weekly publication founded in 1843 in London, known for its authoritative analysis of international news, politics, economics, and business. Its editorial team produces a range of guides and books that distill complex subjects into accessible insights for professionals and readers worldwide.
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