(AudioBook Report) Talking to Strangers by Malcolm Gladwell

Just Finished Malcolm Gladwell's 'Talking to Strangers' and there's more than one important message I took away...

First, Gladwell introduced two pivotal concepts in the book:

1. Default to Truth - the idea that, by and large, we tend to believe people when they tell us something (especially if they're in positions of authority), and not question their honesty.

2. Transparency - the belief that we can tell, by observing someone, what their thoughts, feelings, or intentions are.

Both concepts, we learn, are wrong.

By defaulting to truth or trusting our views on transparency, we tend to believe things we shouldn't about others.

I've been guilty of both.

And the reality is, these misconceptions can cause negative or aggressive behavior, fear, and strife, where nothing of the kind should or need exist.

The idea that we can anticipate exactly what another person, whom we don't know, is thinking, feeling, or doing is a false premise.

Care, attention, restraint, and humility are required - and there are no short cuts.

I recommend the AudioBook version of 'Talking to Strangers' because of the more robust format Gladwell used in production - it's a fun but impactful listen.

And worth, I believe, the time.