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Rational Ritual
152 pages, 2013
business & management
1082 books
economics & politics
987 books
technology
392 booksGame theory shows that to create coordination, a group of people must form common knowledge. Each person wants to participate only if others also participate. Members must have knowledge of each other, knowledge of that knowledge, and so on.
Michael Chwe applies this insight to analyze rituals across history and cultures and shows that ceremonies are powerful not simply because they transmit meaning from a central source to each audience member, but because they let audience members know what other members know.
In Rational Ritual, Michael Suk-Young Chwe explores the concept of 'common knowledge' and its importance in social interactions. He explains that common knowledge isn't just about what we know, but also about what others know that we know. This shared understanding is crucial in shaping our behavior and decisions.
Chwe digs into the role of rituals in creating common knowledge. He argues that rituals aren't just symbolic actions, but practical tools that help people synchronize their beliefs and expectations. So, next time you see a ritual, don't just dismiss it as a mere tradition, but see it as a powerful tool for building shared understanding.
The book doesn't just explore the theory of common knowledge, but also its practical applications. Chwe shows how common knowledge can be used in various fields, from politics to marketing. For example, he explains how politicians use public events to create common knowledge and influence public opinion.
Chwe also takes a look at the role of media in creating common knowledge. He argues that media isn't just a source of information, but a platform for creating shared understanding. This insight can help you see the media in a new light and understand its power in shaping public opinion.
Rational Ritual offers a fresh perspective on social interactions. It shows that our actions aren't just influenced by what we know, but also by what we believe others know. This insight can help you understand your own behavior and the behavior of others in a new way.
Quotes 1
Rational Ritual by Michael Suk-Young Chwe presents a concept of 'common knowledge' and its role in coordinating our actions. It's a fascinating exploration of how we use social media to establish common ground and shared understanding.
Mark Zuckerberg - Facebook Co-founder