Beliefism: How to stop hating the people we disagree with

About the Book

'Brilliant, wise, humane, scientific, and kind. Beliefism is exactly what the doctor ordered - and it could change the world' Cass R. Sunstein, Robert Walmsley University Professor, Harvard University

'Repeated throughout is the fine principle that whatever position you wish to argue on an issue, you must be honest about what bad effects, as well as good, will follow.' Steven Poole, The Times

Beliefism (noun): Discrimination against people who disagree with us

Do you avoid people who are strongly against immigration? Or strongly for trans rights? We might like to think that we're tolerant, but many of us struggle to engage with people whose opinions differ strongly from our own. That means we're falling victim to what behavioural scientist Professor Paul Dolan defines as Beliefism.

Drawing on the evidence from across the social sciences, Dolan shows how easy it is for us to divide ourselves into opposing camps - and how harmful that can be. Combining curiosity, irreverence and warmth, Beliefism is a definitive behavioural science take by a leader in his field. Whether it's among friends, at university or at work, being less beliefist will make you a better partner or parent, and a more effective buddy or boss.

About the Author :
Paul Dolan is Professor of Behavioural Science at the London School of Economics and Political Science. He trained as an economist over three decades ago, moving into psychology after working with Nobel Laureate Daniel Kahneman. He has published around 150 peer-reviewed papers in leading academic journals. He is author of best-selling books Happiness by Design and Happy Ever After, works that reshaped how we think about what a good life is. His new podcast is called Breaking Beliefism. He doesn't hate anyone who disagrees with him - unless they're fans of Coldplay.

Review :
Brilliant, wise, humane, scientific, and kind. Beliefism is exactly what the doctor ordered - and it could change the world I learned more about the causes of political hostility in my first hour of reading Dolan's book than in 14 years as an MP. By the end, I was certain what to do about it. And in finding areas where Paul and I radically disagree, I rejoice that I am not a Beliefist! In these fractured, fractious times, there has never been a more important time to rediscover the lost art of disagreeing agreeably - for it is an art and it is at risk of being lost. Paul Dolan has provided a masterclass - one which is deeply analytical, very entertaining and highly practical - in how to do so A brilliant book that seems immediately urgent the moment you start reading. Dolan squarely takes on the last remaining discrimination and challenges us to see the person behind the opinion In a world where so many of us seek out those with the same views and prejudices, this book is essential reading. Beliefism is a disease infecting our society and Dolan shows how it can be treated with a heavy dose of tolerance Painful though it can sometimes be, I have always believed in listening to the other side's arguments. As Paul Dolan argues, it can be good for us An urgent, fresh and brilliant call to solve one of the 21st century's most pressing problems Are we more divided than ever, or just more beliefist? In this sharp and engaging book, Paul Dolan examines why we struggle to tolerate opposing viewpoints-and what we can do about it. With wit, wisdom, and a wealth of research, Dolan lays out a practical framework for bridging divides and offers a fresh perspective on how we can engage with others So many conversations which used to be considered normal and unthreatening now cause anxiety and are avoided. That's storing up trouble which we can ill afford. Paul Dolan's book could not be more timely and relevant A likeable and timely reminder that we can make common cause and be friends even across radical political differences ... required reading for our divided times Repeated throughout is the fine principle that whatever position you wish to argue on an issue, you must be honest about what bad effects, as well as good, will follow No one comes at nuance with quite as much passion as Paul. A must-read