Lies We Live by: The Art of Self-Deception

This is a wonderful and provocative look at how we deceive others and ourselves. It is rich with insight and beautifully written (kudos also to the translator, who did a magnificent job). I measure a book by how much it makes me think, and how many times I put a note to myself in the margins. By that measure, this is one of the most enjoyable books I've read this year. Let me add that I have no connection at all to the author or anyone else involved with this book. Indeed, I have no idea who Eduardo Giannetti is. But I'd like to meet him someday.

Don't be fooled by the catchy title - this isn't a pop-psych wander through commonly-held delusions. Blending science, philosophy and psychology, Eduardo Giannetti makes a rigorous yet accessible attempt to explain precisely what goes on in our minds when we (try to) deceive ourselves, why we do it, and its consequences. Only in the fourth and final chapter does he really apply this theory to intra- and interpersonal behaviour and draw some interesting conclusions for the rule of law. Giannetti is an historian of ideas, and it shows. The scope of his research for this book is enormous. But for all the depth and breadth of its inquiry, you don't have to be a student of philosophy to appreciate it. A passing acquaintance with epistemology - especially Descartes - will smooth your path through the first two chapters, but Giannetti's skill for cogent argument, his clear examples and comprehensive end notes are enormously helpful. You come away feeling like you've had a crash-course in neuroscience, evolution, psychology and ethics, and with a long list of books you want to buy.