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The (Honest) Truth About Dishonesty

336 pages, 2013

psychology

psychology

705 books
self-improvement

self-improvement

909 books
Takeaways
Description

In this groundbreaking look at the way we behave, bestselling author and behavioral economist, Dan Ariely examines why we cheat.

 From ticket-fixing in our police departments to test-score scandals in our schools, from our elected leaders’ extra-marital affairs to the Ponzi schemes undermining our economy, cheating, and dishonesty are ubiquitous parts of our national news cycle—and inescapable parts of the human condition. Drawing on original experiments and research, Ariely reveals—honestly—what motivates these irrational but entirely human behaviors.

Understanding Dishonesty

In The (Honest) Truth About Dishonesty, Dan Ariely explores the concept of dishonesty. He finds that it's not just a black and white issue, but rather a complex behavior that's influenced by various factors. It's a fascinating look into why people lie and cheat, and it might make you rethink your own actions.

The Role of Rationalization

Ariely's research shows that rationalization plays a big role in dishonesty. We often justify our dishonest actions to ourselves, making them seem less bad. This is a key insight from the book that can help us understand our own behavior and make better choices.

Small Cheats, Big Impact

One of the most interesting findings in the book is that small acts of dishonesty can add up over time. Even minor cheats can have a big impact on our lives and society as a whole. So, it's worth taking a closer look at our actions and their consequences.

The Influence of Others

The (Honest) Truth About Dishonesty also explores how other people influence our behavior. Ariely finds that we're more likely to cheat if we see others doing it. This is a powerful reminder of the importance of setting a good example and creating a culture of honesty.

Changing Our Behavior

Finally, the book offers practical advice on how to reduce dishonesty. Ariely suggests that reminders of moral standards, such as codes of conduct, can help. It's a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their behavior and create a more honest world.

Quotes 5

Ariely's book is a captivating exploration of the complex nature of dishonesty, providing profound insights into our moral behavior.

Malcolm GladwellMalcolm Gladwell - Journalist, Author

Ariely's work is a fascinating study that challenges our understanding of ethics, honesty, and human nature.

Daniel PinkDaniel Pink - Author, Speaker

Ariely's book is a compelling exploration of the paradox of dishonesty, revealing the hidden truths about human nature.

Robert CialdiniRobert Cialdini - Psychologist, Author

Ariely's book is a thought-provoking examination of the intricate relationship between honesty and dishonesty.

Steven LevittSteven Levitt - Economist, Author

Ariely's book is a fascinating journey into the human mind, revealing the surprising truth about our dishonest behaviors.

Dan HeathDan Heath - Author, Speaker
Malcolm GladwellDaniel PinkRobert CialdiniSteven LevittDan Heath