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Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2005

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Book Brief

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Malcolm Gladwell

Blink

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2005
Book Details
Pages

296

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

2000s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1100L

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Super Short Summary

Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell explores the value of snap judgments and first impressions, revealing how they can be more effective than thorough rational thought. The book delves into the human mind's natural ability for "fast and frugal" thinking, while highlighting that this skill can both succeed and err. The book includes examples from diverse fields such as art, therapy, and law enforcement.

Informative

Contemplative

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

4.2

614,384 ratings

72%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Malcolm Gladwell's Blink garners mixed reviews. Readers commend its engaging exploration of rapid cognition and decision-making, highlighting its accessible writing and thought-provoking anecdotes. However, some criticize its repetitive examples and a lack of depth in scientific analysis. Overall, Blink offers valuable insights but may leave detail-oriented readers wanting more.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Blink?

A reader who enjoys Blink by Malcolm Gladwell is likely fascinated by psychology, decision-making, and the science behind snap judgments. Fans of Daniel Kahneman’s Thinking, Fast and Slow or Dan Ariely's Predictably Irrational will appreciate Gladwell’s engaging exploration of the subconscious mind and its influences.

4.2

614,384 ratings

72%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Malcolm Gladwell

An author and journalist known for exploring the significant effects of minor influences and quick thinking, as highlighted by his work on ideas and reasoning.

A young immigrant whose tragic encounter with police underscores the challenges and pitfalls of rapid decision-making in high-pressure situations.

A renowned relationship psychologist whose system can predict marital success through the analysis of couples' interactions and emotional signals.

A career Marine officer who highlighted the importance of adaptability and quick decision-making in unpredictable scenarios during a military exercise.

A psychologist who demonstrated that subtle changes in language can influence people's behavior and interactions.

A successful car salesman whose approach emphasized customer care and the avoidance of superficial judgments based on appearance.

A trombonist who faced gender bias after winning a blind audition, illustrating the impact of assumptions and the merit of blind evaluations.

Expert taste testers who showed how trained instincts can articulate detailed sensory evaluations while maintaining objectivity.

A marketer who revealed that consumers often judge product quality based on external packaging cues rather than the product itself.

A leading researcher in facial expressions who identified universal indicators of human emotions through an extensive cataloging of expressions.

A security consultant who trained bodyguards to remain composed under threat and observed the dynamics of police team behavior during crises.

A tennis pro-turned-teacher known for his perplexing ability to predict double faults with precision, embodying the mind's quick pattern recognition.

An art expert and former museum director whose instincts helped identify the authenticity of artworks, showcasing his refined perceptive skills.

Book Details
Pages

296

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

2000s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1100L

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