54 pages • 1 hour read
The Blank Slate
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Book Brief
525
Book • Nonfiction
2000s
2002
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In his nonfiction book The Blank Slate, Harvard-educated experimental psychologist Steven Pinker debunks the idea that the mind is a "blank slate," arguing that our brains are hardwired with universal attributes. He also discredits the concepts of the Noble Savage and the Ghost in the Machine, showing that cognitive science supports intrinsic human nature and innate cognitive faculties, while proposing conscious choices to overcome our predispositions. The book addresses sensitive topics such as violence and genetics.
Informative
Challenging
Contemplative
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
26,444 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Blank Slate by Steven Pinker has garnered attention for its compelling argument against the tabula rasa notion of human nature. Positive reviews commend Pinker's thorough research, clear writing style, and insightful integration of biology and psychology. Critics, however, point out perceived oversimplifications and potential biases in his interpretation of data. Overall, the book is praised for its thought-provoking content despite some controversial stances.
Who Should Read The Blank Slate?
Readers who relish thought-provoking exploration in psychology and human nature will enjoy The Blank Slate by Steven Pinker. Fans of Richard Dawkins' The Selfish Gene or Daniel Dennett's Darwin's Dangerous Idea will find Pinker's arguments on nature vs. nurture equally compelling and intellectually stimulating.
26,444 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Thomas Hobbes
Thomas Hobbes
An Enlightenment-era philosopher who developed the political theory of the social contract, viewing human actions as fundamentally selfish and critiquing the concept of the Noble Savage.
John Locke
John Locke
An Enlightenment philosopher who argued against the divine right of kings and for inherent human equality, seeing social contracts as essential for justice and protection in society.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau
Jean-Jacques Rousseau
A Swiss-born French philosopher known for the idea of the Noble Savage, who believed that civilization introduced ills like violence, advocating for a return to the state of nature.
Franz Boas
Franz Boas
A German-born American anthropologist who promoted cultural egalitarianism, attributing human differences to cultural rather than biological factors, and influenced modern anthropology.
525
Book • Nonfiction
2000s
2002
Adult
18+ years
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