How Minds Change

The Surprising Science of Belief, Opinion, and Persuasion

By: David McRaney

Narrated by: David McRaney

A powerful, compassionate investigation of why it’s so hard to change your mind—and the transformative effects that follow when you do—by the internationally bestselling author of You Are Not So Smart

"A riveting read on the art and science of persuasion . . . In a time when too many minds seem closed, this is a masterful analysis of what it takes to open them." —Adam Grant, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Think Again and host of the podcast WorkLife

PORCHLIGHT BOOK AWARD WINNER

What made a prominent conspiracy-theorist YouTuber finally see that 9/11 was not a hoax? Can you finally have a productive conversation about politics with your uncle at the next family gathering? How does an ordinary person find the courage to leave a cult? Can widespread social change only take place when a generation dies out?

Inspired by curiosity and underpinned by diligent research, How Minds Change is an expansive, big-hearted journalistic narrative for our divided times, told with David McRaney’s trademark humor, compassion, and scientific inquiry. In engaging chapters built around eye-opening interviews and anecdotes—featuring psychologists and neuroscientists, and also former cult members, conspiracy theorists, and political activists—McRaney shows why illusions like The Dress captivate (and break) the internet; how conversational techniques can crack hardened attitudes; and what miracles are possible when we show up with open minds and a better understanding of how the human brain works.

Reaching surprising and thought-provoking conclusions, How Minds Change demonstrates that the ability to uncover our own motives and beliefs—and understand those of others—may be the greatest persuasive tool of all.

Worth a second listen

Being new to his podcast I wasn’t sure of the book but absolutely loved it, now one of my favorite books on persuasion,

Excellent

Narrator was great, informative and easy to follow didn’t want to stop learning, got me through many work days

critical reading for our times

A very thoughtful and approachable analysis of the way our minds work and/or don't! Highly recommend.

Life Changing Material!!

This book has literally been life-changing for me. I’ve read and listened to it many times and always find something new to think about.

Minds Change

Wonderful explanation of why minds have evolved, throughout history, to change. Shows how easily the human mind believes a seemingly infinite number of things that have no basis in reality.