The hidden science of why people click, and how this powerful phenomenon shapes our lives.
In Why We Click, bestselling author Kate Murphy explores the science behind the seemingly magical yet science-backed phenomenon that makes us fall into rhythm and find resonance with one another. Murphy reveals how and why we match one another's movements, posture and gestures, and sync up our heart rates, blood pressure, pupil dilation, brainwaves and hormonal activity. This powerful tool shows that emotions, moods and behaviours are all infectious and can profoundly impact our health and wellbeing – for good or bad.
In this enthralling book, discover the superpower of 'interpersonal synchrony' and its extraordinary benefits so you can learn how to detect and encourage this phenomenon when beneficial, and 'desynchronise' from others when it is not.
About the Author
Kate Murphy is a journalist and science communicator. She is the author of the international bestseller, You're Not Listening, and her writing has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Economist and more. Kate is known for her fresh and accessible way of explaining complex subjects, particularly the science behind human interactions, helping readers understand why people behave the way they do. She lives in Houston, Texas.
Industry Reviews
'Intelligent and thought-provoking'
The Times, on You’re Not Listening
'Smart and playful'
Observer, on You’re Not Listening
'Brilliant'
Chris Evans, on You’re Not Listening
'This book changed the way I think about communicating with the people who matter to me'
Cal Newport, on You’re Not Listening
'A thoughtful, eloquent volume that could transform not just your relationships but your own worldview as well'
Waterstones, Best Non-fiction Books for 2020 , on You’re Not Listening
'From start to finish, Why We Click dives deep into how we relate, communicate, and sync our behavior in fascinating and perplexing ways. It’s a captivating journey through the science behind the powerful, yet invisible forces that synchronize human behavior.'
Danny Meyer, author of Setting the Table
'In a world where loneliness is skyrocketing and connection feels harder than ever, Murphy's book is a must-have resource. Why We Click is a fascinating, science-backed reminder that the joy we seek so often begins in rhythm with the people around us'
Laurie Santos, Chandrika and Ranjan Tandon Professor of Psychology and host of The Happiness Lab podcast
'Why We Click is a searching and fascinating exploration of the up-and-coming science of human connection. Kate Murphy describes, in lucid terms, not only the foundation of the seemingly effortless link between people, but also the devastating consequences of its absence – all too relevant in a world where digital virtualities are draining real-life interaction from our lives'
Thomas Lewis, psychiatrist, adjunct professor at UCSF and author of A General Theory of Love
'Why We Click is popular science at its best. Kate Murphy takes a universal yet mysterious experience—our sense of connection with others—and reveals the surprising science that explains it. Through vivid stories and carefully-conducted research, Murphy transforms an experience that once felt mysterious and magical into something that is perfectly understandable. You’ll end this book feeling like you’ve gotten a new pair of crystal-clear glasses to see your social world through. It’s engaging, insightful, and hard to put down!'
Nicholas Epley, Professor of Behavioural Science, and author of Mindwise and A Little More Social
