Book Review: Talking to Strangers
Published:
Gladwellâs Talking to Strangers is a pop psychology book about the difficulties of communication. He weaves together case studies of misunderstandings and deception to argue that human communication is filled with folly.
Hereâs the paperback and audiobook.
Utility: â (1/5) Gladwell doesnât develop a clear thesis, and itâs unclear what to infer from all of the case studies.The stories seem to be much better explained in the context of their circumstances than by overarching claims about the nature of human deception. He leaves us with the bitter reality that we âwill never know the whole truthâ without much practical advice to wash it down.
Writing: ââââ (4/5) Despite the lack of a thorughline, his mastery of narration continues to shine through. The stories are exciting and well-paced. While certainly not his best work, it makes for good light reading.