The War for Kindness

272 pages, 2019

Jamil Zaki

Takeaways

Description

In this book, Jamil Zaki weaves together the very latest science with stories that will stay in your heart forever. --Angela Duckworth, author of GritEmpathy is in short supply. We struggle to understand people who aren't like us but find it easy to hate them.

Studies show that we are less caring than we were even thirty years ago. In 2006, Barack Obama said that the United States was suffering from an empathy deficit. Since then, things appear to have only gotten worse.

It doesn't have to be this way. In this groundbreaking book, Jamil Zaki shares cutting-edge research from his lab showing how empathy can be strengthened through effort. He also tells the stories of people who embody this new perspective--fighting for kindness in the most difficult of circumstances."

Empathy is a Skill

In The War for Kindness, Jamil Zaki argues that empathy is not just an innate trait, but a skill that can be developed. He encourages us to see empathy as a muscle that can be strengthened with practice and effort. So, if you're feeling a bit out of touch with others, don't worry. You can work on it!

The Power of Connection

Zaki's research in the book shows that empathy can create powerful connections between people. It's not just about understanding someone else's feelings, but also about feeling them yourself. This shared experience can bring people closer together, fostering stronger relationships and communities.

Empathy Can Be Exhausting

While empathy is important, Zaki also explores the idea that it can be emotionally draining. Constantly feeling others' emotions can lead to burnout. But don't let this scare you away from being empathetic. Instead, find a balance that works for you.

Technology's Impact on Empathy

In The War for Kindness, Zaki takes a look at how technology affects our ability to empathize. He suggests that while technology can sometimes make us feel more isolated, it can also be used to foster empathy and connection. It's all about how we use it.

Empathy Can Change the World

Zaki believes that empathy has the power to change the world. By understanding and sharing the feelings of others, we can work towards a more compassionate and kind society. So, if you're looking to make a difference, start by working on your empathy skills.

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Quotes 3

Jamil Zaki is a beacon of hope for a world that could use a lot more kindness. His book is a profound exploration of the best of human nature, and a call to action to inspire more of it.

Adam Grant - Organizational psychologist

In The War for Kindness, Jamil Zaki takes on one of the most important questions of our time: Can we become a kinder species? His answer is a resounding yes, and his book is a game-changer.

Dacher Keltner - Psychology professor

Jamil Zaki's The War for Kindness is a groundbreaking book that brings together the latest findings in neuroscience, psychology, and sociology to help us understand what drives human behavior and how we can make the world a better place.