How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2023

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Before You Read Beta

Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Chapters 1-4

Part 1, Chapters 5-7

Part 2, Chapters 8-10

Part 2, Chapters 11-12

Part 3, Chapters 13-14

Part 3, Chapters 15-17

Key Figures

Themes

Index of Terms

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools Beta

Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

How does David Brooks illustrate the societal crisis of disconnection in How to Know a Person, and what role does it play in shaping individual well-being?

Reflect on the struggles inherent in the “interpersonal task” phase, such as conflict aversion and conformity, and discuss their implications for personal growth and the establishment of social identity.

Discuss the concept of a “community of truth” introduced by Brooks. How does wisdom become a social skill practiced within relationships, and how does genuine interest and exploration contribute to a collective understanding?