Booktalking "Why Smart People Hurt" by Eric Maisel

Natural psychology is a 21st Century invention whose basic tenet is that a sense of meaning and purpose in life provides gratification and well-being. The author discusses one billion, or 15% of the 7 billion people who currently populate earth, as being intellectually bright. Certain challenges face these individuals.

Intelligence is discouraged by society. People feel threatened by intellect, and they target smart people for derision and contempt. Some individuals do not fit in since their interests in the world and how they feel are different from others.

Frustration at Work

Work does not always cater to the bright. Having good ideas and not being able to implement them, feeling bored by the high degree of stratification of work and not being able to use their full brain power frustrates smart people.

A Racing Brain

Dealing with a racing brain does not necessarily mean these people are on drugs. People get excited about their challenges. However, people can get tired of the mania, and this can make them susceptible to addictions.

Using Language to Argue Any Point

Intelligent individuals see rhetoric for what it is, and they can use logic to defend any point. However, they can get mired in language's complexities.

Life Has to Have Meaning

Smart individuals may be likely to be more disturbed and sadder about life if it does not hold much meaning for them.

Poverty Holds Some Gifted Kids Back

Poor gifted kids are not steered towards intellectual professions, and it can be harder for them to achieve their dreams due to lack of economic mobility.

Why Smart People Hurt: A Guide For the Bright, the Sensitive and the Creative by Eric Maisel, 2013

I like the vignettes of stories of real people that populate each chapter. However, I disagree with the premise that depression will plague gifted people and that they are more likely to feel sad. People who have a wide range of emotional capacity also feel joy more deeply. The author does not define intelligence. It is hard to discuss giftedness if you will not explain what you mean by that term.

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Interesting points made by

Interesting points made by the author and interesting rebuttals.