The Folly of Fools The Logic of Deceit and Self-Deception in Human Life

Author/creator Trivers, Robert Author
Format Electronic
Publication InfoNew York : Basic Books New York : Perseus Books Group [Distributor]
Description416 p. 07.910 x 06.540 in.
Supplemental ContentFull text available from Ebook Central - Academic Complete
Subjects

Summary Annotation A New York Times Notable Book of 2012 Whether it's in a cockpit at takeoff or the planning of an offensive war, a romantic relationship or a dispute at the office, there are many opportunities to lie and self-deceive-but deceit and self-deception carry the costs of being alienated from reality and can lead to disaster. So why does deception play such a prominent role in our everyday lives? In short, why do we deceive? In his bold new work, prominent biological theorist Robert Trivers unflinchingly argues that self-deception evolved in the service of deceit-the better to fool others. We do it for biological reasons-in order to help us survive and procreate. From viruses mimicking host behavior to humans misremembering (sometimes intentionally) the details of a quarrel, science has proven that the deceptive one can always outwit the masses. But we undertake this deception at our own peril. Trivers has written an ambitious investigation into the evolutionary logic of lying and the costs of leaving it unchecked.
Access restrictionAvailable only to authorized users.
Technical detailsMode of access: World Wide Web
Awards noteNew York Times Notable Books of the Year (won), 2012
Genre/formElectronic books.
ISBN9780465085972
ISBN0465085970 (Trade Paper) Active Record
Standard identifier# 9780465085972
Stock number00003283

Availability

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Electronic Resources Access Content Online ✔ Available