Daniel Gardner – The Science of Fear

Daniel Gardner – The Science of Fear

About The Science of Fear

“A priceless resource for everyone who wishes to think clearly.” The New York Times bestselling author of Superforecasting and Future Babble (The Guardian)

From terror attacks to crumbling economies, opioid epidemics to mass gun violence and hazardous Chinese toys, our list of concerns appears to be growing. Despite this, we are the most secure and healthy humans in history. Why are we so concerned?

The Science of Fear is an introduction to the emerging brain science of risk, deconstructing the concerns that mislead and control us on a daily basis. Dan Gardner, an award-winning journalist, illustrates how irrational anxiety stems from the ways we miscalculate threats based on our hunter-gatherer brains. Gardner demonstrates how our “gut” emotions lead us wrong, with the unique collaboration of risk-science pioneer Paul Slovic and other prominent specialists. Understanding our illogical concerns liberates us from political and corporate influence and improves our decision-making. Finally, The Science of Fear will inspire you to be bold.

“Excellent… Analyzes everything from the media’s penchant for nonsensical scare tales to politicians’ opportunistic manipulation of fear… [A] cheerful antidote to current paranoia.” —From The Economist

“An amusing, often startling examination of why tiny hazards frighten us while we participate in extremely risky behaviors without hesitation.”

—Kirkus (starred review) (starred review)

“Elegantly combines academic study with ordinary experience, revealing the secrets of emotion and reason, as well as the critical roles they play in our lives.” “A fantastic book.” —Dan Ariely, best-selling author of Predictably Irrational.