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KNOWLEDGE VALUE INDEX (KVI)
Audience scores:
Goodreads: 4.3/5 stars
Amazon: 4.3/5 stars
Critical evaluation:
Our beliefs profoundly shape our actions, from personal decisions to societal movements - inspiring great works and altruism, but also war and suffering. In "Belief," psychologist James Alcock comprehensively explores the roots and ramifications of human convictions. Central to his framework is the concept of the "Belief Engine" - the cognitive processes that form beliefs by integrating sensory input with memory. While largely adaptive, the Belief Engine is prone to biases like seeing patterns in randomness, leading to phenomena like magical thinking.
Alcock catalogs an array of beliefs spanning alternative medicine, superstition, religion and the paranormal. He also discusses forensically relevant topics like terrorism, lie detection, and false memories. Though not aimed at practitioners, forensic psychiatrists will find much to consider regarding the psychology of belief. Well-written and exhaustively researched, "Belief" equips readers with tools for critical thinking to help counteract our mind's blind spots. It serves as an engaging, comprehensive look at the underpinnings and impact of conviction.