How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen

Brooks discusses the critical role of personality traits in shaping individuals’ lives and influencing societal dynamics. He employs the example of George W. Bush to illustrate how a person’s unique combination of traits, in his case high extroversion and low curiosity, can impact major decisions and outcomes, reiterating the theme The Importance of Curiosity in Personal Growth.

The chapter begins with a vivid portrayal of George W. Bush as an extremely extroverted individual. From his childhood days as a class clown and popular kid to his tenure as the Republican governor of Texas, Bush’s exuberant and outgoing nature is highlighted. Brooks emphasizes Bush’s ability to eliminate distance between himself and others, citing instances where he kissed a political opponent on the lips to diffuse tension. While Bush scores high on extroversion, a key point is raised by psychologist Dan McAdams: Bush does not exhibit high curiosity. This lack of intellectual curiosity, evident in his approach to decision-making and meetings with newspaper columnists during his presidency, is identified as a potential contributor to the catastrophic decision to initiate the Iraq War.

Brooks underscores the importance of a healthy society embracing a diversity of personalities, each suited for different social roles.