Van Tongeren, D. R. (2022). Humble: Free yourself from the traps of a narcissistic world. The Experiment.

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About Humble

In a world that prioritizes self-aggrandizing and rewards narcissisms, people are more disconnected, discontented, and divided than ever. Disagreements are contentious, and we’re unable to respectfully interact with those with whom we disagree. An unhealthy and over-inflated focus on ourselves isn’t working. We need something different. Modern science now supports what ancient wisdom has long suggested: cultivating a life marked by humility can enrich our relationships, improve our work, and transform our society. Rooted in groundbreaking research, this book explores how deliberately developing humility, an often-undervalued character trait and ancient virtue, is central to a life of meaning and purpose.

Where to buy the book

Visit The Experiment website.

Praise for Humble:

“In a world filled with overconfidence, there’s no virtue more underrated than humility. In this lucid, thoughtful book, a leading expert makes a persuasive case for being honest about your weaknesses—and shows how that can be a source of strength.”—Adam Grant, #1 New York Times–bestselling author of Think Again and host of the podcast WorkLife

“It used to be that humility was one of the most underestimated of the virtues. Not anymore. Following the latest science, Daryl Van Tongeren shines light on this ancient, old-fashioned virtue in a brand-new way. Unpacking the many meanings, layers and levels of humility, he clearly and compellingly demonstrates why it is so necessary in today’s world. Humility appears to be so small, so modest, so unassuming, so humble. But we should not be deceived by its appearance.”—Robert Emmons, editor-in-chief of The Journal of Positive Psychology and author of The Little Book of Gratitude.

“Daryl Van Tongeren has written an important book that can provide a much-needed antidote to the narcissism and the crisis of meaning that pervades our society.”—Tal Ben-Shahar, PhD, New York Times–bestselling author of Happier and Happier, No Matter What

“Narcissism and self-promotion have seduced millions into wasting their lives, pretending to be someone they’re not. But Dr. Van Tongeren shows us a way out: the ancient virtue of humility. If you’re tired of the superficiality of modern life, Humble has the antidote. It’s a road map for getting our feet back on the ground.”—Daniel Z. Lieberman, MD, coauthor of The Molecule of More

“It’s a delightfully ironic fact of science: when you understand the power of humility, you discover a more self-confident way to engage with the world. A superior self through selflessness—who knew?”—Michael E. Long, coauthor of The Molecule of More

“We live in a world where big egos stand out and seemingly get rewarded. In his fantastic new book, Dr. Van Tongeren makes a compelling case for humility as a virtue: It is not about avoiding life, but about confronting ourselves, our relationships, and our world with openness and willingness to accept that we do not hold all the answers. Humble can inspire growth and make for a truly rich life.”—W. Keith Campbell, PhD, author of The New Science of Narcissism

“An enlightening book on a neglected virtue. Backed by scientific research and leavened with helpful anecdotes, Van Tongeren makes a convincing case that humility can improve how we see (and treat) ourselves, others, and the world around us.”—Michael McCullough, professor of psychology, University of California, San Diego, and author of The Kindness of Strangers