The Genius In All Of Us : A New Science Of Talent And Human Potential

Description

This title offers a dazzling look at the new science of genetics and the frontiers of human potential. Integrating cutting edge research from a wide swath of disciplines, Shenk portrays a highly-optimistic new view of human potential. The problem isn't our inadequate genetic assets, but our inability, so far, to tap into what we already have. IQ testing and widespread acceptance of 'innate' abilities have created an unnecessarily pessimistic view of humanity - and much misdirected public policy, especially in education. The truth is much more exciting. Genes are not a 'blueprint' that bless some with greatness and doom most of us to mediocrity or worse. Rather our individual destinies are a product of the complex interplay between genes and outside stimuli - a dynamic which we, as people and as parents, can influence. This is a revolutionary and optimistic message. We are not prisoners of our DNA. We all have the potential for greatness. Deftly written and a joy to read, The Genius in All of Us is also deeply revolutionary and optimistic - the perfect antidote to challenging economic times.

Reviews

'David Shenk sweeps aside decades of misconceptions about genetics - and shows that by overstating the importance of genes, we've understated the potential of ourselves. A persuasive and inspiring book that will make you think anew about your life and our shared future.' Daniel H. Pink, author of Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us 'A great book. David Shenk handily dispels the myth that one must be born a genius. From consistently whacking the ball out of the park to composing ethereal piano sonatas, Shenk convincingly makes the case for the potential genius that lies in all of us. While our genes may provide a nice runway, only hard work and unwavering focus can allow true genius to take flight.' Rudolph E. Tanzi, Harvard Medical School 'Old fashioned beliefs, a desire to simplify and the remarkable successes of molecular biology led to an undue emphasis on the role of genes in the development of human intelligence. Environmental determinism exists too, but biology and psychology have moved well beyond these extreme positions. The importance of David Shenk's book is that he has made accessible to a wide audience the advances in the understanding of how each person develops. I congratulate him.' Sir Patrick Bateson, Cambridge University

Author description

David Shenk is the bestselling author of four previous books, including THE FORGETTING, DATA SMOG and most recently THE IMMORTAL GAME. He is a contributor to the Atlantic Monthly, National Geographic, Harper's, The New Yorker, National Public Radio and PBS / National Public Television. http://davidshenk.com / http://geniusblog.davidshenk.com