How Minds Change: The Surprising Science of Belief, Opinion, and Persuasion

How Minds Change explores why changing one's mind is difficult and what happens when people do. Through interviews and anecdotes featuring psychologists, neuroscientists, former cult members, conspiracy theorists, and political activists, David McRaney examines the science behind belief and persuasion. The book addresses questions such as what led a prominent conspiracy-theorist YouTuber to reject 9/11 denial, how to have productive political conversations with family members, and how ordinary people find the courage to leave cults. McRaney investigates why internet phenomena like The Dress capture attention, how conversational techniques can shift entrenched attitudes, and what becomes possible when people approach discussions with open minds and understanding of how the brain works. McRaney concludes that understanding our own motives and beliefs, as well as those of others, may be the most powerful persuasive tool available. A Porchlight Book Award winner, the book combines journalistic narrative with scientific inquiry and humor to address division in contemporary society.