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The Folly of Fools: The Logic of Deceit and Self-Deception in Human Life
The Folly of Fools The Logic of Deceit and SelfDeception in Human Life Author:Robert Trivers A New York Times Notable Book of 2012 — Whether it?s in a cockpit at takeoff or the planning of an offensive war, a romantic relationship or a dispute at the office, there are many opportunities to lie and self-deceive?but deceit and self-deception carry the costs of being alienated from reality and can lead to disaster. So why does deception pla... more »y such a prominent role in our everyday lives? In short, why do we deceive?
In his bold new work, prominent biological theorist Robert Trivers unflinchingly argues that self-deception evolved in the service of deceit?the better to fool others. We do it for biological reasons?in order to help us survive and procreate. From viruses mimicking host behavior to humans misremembering (sometimes intentionally) the details of a quarrel, science has proven that the deceptive one can always outwit the masses. But we undertake this deception at our own peril.Trivers has written an ambitious investigation into the evolutionary logic of lying and the costs of leaving it unchecked.« less
ISBN-13: 9780465085972 ISBN-10: 0465085970 Publication Date: 11/12/2013 Pages:416 Edition:First Trade Paper Ed Rating: