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Title:
Rationality [large print] : what it is, why it seems scarce, why it matters
Author:
Edition:
First large print edition.
Publication Date:
2021
Publication Information:
New York, New York : Random House Large Print, [2021].
Physical Description:
xvi, 602 pages (large print) : illustrations ; 24 cm.
ISBN:
9780593460160
Abstract:
Today humanity is reaching new heights of scientific understanding - and also appears to be losing its mind. Steven Pinker rejects the cynical cliché that humans are simply irrational. Pinker explores how the rational pursuit of self-interest, sectarian solidarity, and uplifting mythology can add up to crippling irrationality in a society. Collective rationality depends on norms that are explicitly designed to promote objectivity and truth. Rationality leads to better choices in our lives and in the public sphere, and is the ultimate driver of social justice and moral progress.
Contents:
How rational an animal? -- Rationality and irrationality -- Logic and critical thinking -- Probability and randomness -- Beliefs and evidence (Bayesian reasoning) -- Risk and reward (rational choice and expected utility) -- Hits and false alarms (signal detection and statistical decision theory) -- Self and others (game theory) -- Correlation and causation -- What's wrong with people? -- Why rationality matters.
Genre:
Language:
English
