Coarse Guides — Thinking, Fast and Slow
A Scientific Exploration of Cognitive Processes
What to know?
Published: October 2011
Size: 419 pages divided into 38 Chapters over Five Parts
Popularity: Winner of numerous awards and a New York Times Best Seller
The Theme: This book is dedicated to exploring Cognitive Science, Psychology and a touch of Economics. Each section builds on a recurring theme, our mind does not operate the way we think it does. The book attempts to distinguish various nuanced processes in both thinking and decision making.
The Author: Daniel Kahneman is a nobel prize winning economist, who worked along side numerous psychologists and mathematicians over his extensive career. He is a prolific researcher who spent time in the Israeli Armed forces and worked at length for many universities and government research groups. He brings a very multi-disciplinary approach to his work.
Who should read it?
This book is a must read for any decision maker. Daniel outlines any number of useful insights into how humans think. This is in stark contrast to the Econs he claims to be the subject of most economic models. If you are interested in achieving a better understanding of how you and those around you make decisions, this book is a must read for you.
Why should you read it?
Kahneman has an easy way of approaching complex issues. The book builds very naturally from start to finish, allowing the audience to easily come along for the ride. Basic concepts are laid out early, while more complex and deeper subjects are introduced gradually. He is a solid story teller who keeps his book flowing from start to finish.
Caveats, provisos, and disclaimers
There isn’t much to caveat about this book. It is solid, well written, and based on log history of scientific testing and observation. If it has a fault, it is that the information assumes a broad spectrum of readers. Those who are well versed in similar content may find themselves longing for a slightly more compact presentation of the information. Honestly, that is a stretch.
In Our Opinion: This book is among the best in the area of cognitive science and decision making. It is insightful with broad appeal. It is likely to be an enjoyable read anyone interested in this subject matter and the myriad of awards argues quite a few others, too. But we encourage you to inform your own-
As second opinions aren’t just for physicians — consider this take as well:
