The Curmudgeonette and I have just finished Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain. As a classic introvert perhaps it's not surprising that I liked this book but the fact that the Curmudgeonette is equally enthusiastic about gives me assurance that it isn't just reinforcing my biases.
Cain was a corporate lawyer on Wall Street and her experiences as an introvert in that setting impelled her on a journey of self discovery and reflections on what it means to be an introvert in contemporary American Society. The book is very well researched and she examines many facets of American Culture; religion, education, business, parenting and spousal relationships.
It was a real eye opener for me. For example her analysis of Evangelical Christianity helped me to understand much of the reason that I'm often annoyed by Evangelicals. Some of that annoyance comes from what I perceive to be their unhelpful theology. However, that does not explain the depth of my viscerally negative reaction to them. The issue that Cain identifies is that their theology makes extroversion a necessity, i.e., if you're a Christian you have to be a positive, ebullient communicator so you can evangelize everyone you meet. Some even claim that "of course Jesus was an extrovert". That's a claim with which I'd disagree.
Could it be possible that this book is a 'game changer' for an American Culture that's idolized extroversion? I think it might possibly be that. She argues that initially Americans valued character in people but that shifted in the 20th century to an emphasis on personality. For proof look at the contemporary infatuation with celebrities, many of whom do not have any particular strength of character. She points to Dale Carnegie's How to Win Friends And Influence People as an example of that shift.
So...don't take my word for it, read it yourself. I'd be pleased to have your reactions and if you'd send them as comments I'll attach them to this post.
1 comment:
Hi Al,
No need to post my comment...if you must post, feel free to edit. Could I sound more introverted? :)
I too read Cain's book and enjoyed it very much. It was so interesting to read how this societal preference for extroversion may have started.
Even introverted people throughout my life have suggested I be more extroverted to succeed. I don't think my efforts to be extroverted ever went very well.
In learning more about introverts, I can explain to others why I'm just sitting there (I'm thinking) and why words don't fly out of my mouth (my brain is busy with other mechanics). I work on a senior management staff of 6; I'm the only introvert. I think my learnings have been helpful for the entire team.
I'm also reading The Introvert Advantage by Marti Olsen Laney. It's a very practical guide and also helpful in working with my extroverted team members.
It was interesting to read about your take on the evangelicals. Since that is the flavor of religion that is so often seen and heard, I think I've always had a hard time separating the evangelical from religion in general. It's good to hear from the introverted side of things.
Cheers!
Amy Prescott Donovan, Lisa's friend in California
Post a Comment