Book description
Using modern psychological science, a great deal of research,
historical anecdotes and an eloquent turn of phrase, the author
contends that the 'seven deadly sins' not only feel good, but are also
good for you. From gluttony to greed, to envy and lust, even the
deadliest of sins can make you smart, successful and happy. For
example, anger can breed perseverance, sloth: hopefulness, greed:
happiness and envy can actually bolster one's self-esteem. Based on
many studies, the author tells us why the greedy are happy, the
slothful are smart, gluttons are social butterflies and how anger can
make you a fearsome negotiator.
The simplistic labelling of the seven deadly sins as 'sins' or as
uniformly wrong does nothing but breed contempt for 'sinners' and
stifle sophisticated discussion. Sin rails against this simplicity.
Each chapter will cover an array of fascinating psychological research
that demonstrates just how interesting and complex the seven deadly
sins are. So the basic message of Sin: relax, spend, eat, drink and
generally covet - you'll be better off for it.
