Altruism: The Science and Psychology of Kindness

(Paperback, Main)

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The concern for the well-being of others could be the saving grace of the 21st century. Matthieu Ricard's Altruism, an erudite, brilliantly ranging synthesis of philosophy, psychology and ages old wisdom, is a radical call to kindness, which has the potential as a new global movement to answer the biggest problems of our time: the economy in the short term, life satisfaction in the mid-term, and the environment in the long term.

As the faultlines of inequality and nationalism leave us ever more divided, Ricard challenges us to be better people - and in the process, make the world a better place.

Reviews

Matthieu Ricard brings together ancient wisdom and scientific insights to put forth a truly compelling global vision... His voice, his message and his wisdom are greatly needed * Arianna Huffington *
Matthieu Ricard is an extraordinary human being, whose luminous presence and gentle voice have a surprising effect: they compel respect for his benign view of life and make routine cynicism impossible. * Daniel Kahneman *
Matthieu Ricard is a genius for our times, a rare combination of scientific brilliance with the heart of a saint. * Daniel Goleman *

Author Bio

Matthieu Ricard is a Buddhist monk who had a promising career in cellular genetics before leaving France to study Buddhism in the Himalayas forty years ago. He is also a bestselling author, translator and photographer, and an active participant in current scientific research on the effects of meditation on the brain. He lives in Tibet and Nepal and is involved in humanitarian projects in both these countries.