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Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1984

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Book Brief

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Robert B. Cialdini

Influence

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1984
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1980s

Publication Year

1984

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Influence, Robert B. Cialdini examines the psychology of persuasion, outlining seven key methods referred to as "levers of influence" that can be used to gain compliance. These include reciprocation, liking, social proof, authority, scarcity, commitment and consistency, and unity. Each lever is explored in detail, demonstrating its application and effectiveness in compelling individuals to agree to requests. The book also discusses the impact of these methods in the digital age, providing insights and strategies to recognize and counteract manipulative tactics. Chapter 4 contains a discussion of the People’s Temple mass suicide, and Chapter 8 describes the execution of prisoners in a World War II Nazi concentration camp, along with a brief discussion of hazing rituals.

Informative

Challenging

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.5

165,520 ratings

81%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Robert B. Cialdini's Influence is praised for its compelling insights into persuasion, offering practical applications and engaging anecdotes. However, some reviews note a repetitive nature and a reliance on dated research. Overall, it is considered a valuable read for those interested in psychology and marketing, despite occasional verbosity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Influence?

Readers who enjoy psychological insights and persuasion techniques will find Influence captivating. Comparable to Daniel Kahneman's Thinking, Fast and Slow or Malcolm Gladwell's Outliers, this book appeals to those interested in behavioral science, marketing, and social psychology.

4.5

165,520 ratings

81%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1980s

Publication Year

1984

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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