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I Used to Like You Until...: (How Binary Thinking Divides Us)
by Kat Timpf, Simon & Schuster Audio
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Language
English
Publisher
Simon & Schuster Audio
Available Formats & Prices
View on AmazonKindle
$14.99
Hardcover
$26.99
Audiobook
$15.74
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About This Book
In this whip-smart follow-up to the “ruthlessly honest exploration of comedy and cancellation” (Dr. Drew) You Can’t Joke About That , New York Times bestselling author Kat Timpf examines the dangers of binary thinking, and how it threatens to take over our institutions, relationships, and even our freedoms. For some reason, when it comes to complex issues, we’ve largely limited ourselves to just two options, resulting in a society of non-thinkers.
After all, once you’ve picked a side, all the thinking has already been done for you. As an independent, libertarian voter who has spent the last ten years at Fox News, Kat has faced this issue too many times to count. She’s learned that surprising things can happen when you refuse to choose a team, especially when you work at a place some people call an existential threat to America.
Binary thinking is much more than just the enemy of critical thinking, it’s also an immediate danger to our political discourse, our institutions, our way of consuming news, our relationships, our creativity, and even to our freedoms. All too often, we will let a single difference in viewpoint, an assumption, or an association be enough to write off another person entirely, even if we know nothing else about them. We miss out on opportunities to connect or even collaborate, all while the people in power over us benefit from our division.
Through humorous examples from her own life and insight only someone in her bizarre position can possess, Kat reminds us that the world doesn’t have to be so black and white. In her signature witty voice, Kat inspires us to lean into thoughtful consideration, genuine conversation, vulnerability, and only hating people when they really deserve it.
Introduction
In a world increasingly defined by stark oppositions, 'I Used to Like You Until...' prompts readers to examine the chasm that binary thinking creates among us. Set against a backdrop of personal anecdotes, societal observations, and insightful analyses, the book dives deep into the roots of polarized perspectives. The author eloquently challenges readers to transcend black-and-white thinking and embrace the complexity of human experiences, nurturing a more inclusive and understanding society.
Key Takeaways
Fosters an appreciation for the nuances in viewpoints that defy simple categorization. Encourages adaptive thinking to embrace evolving perspectives and foster dialogue. Challenges readers to actively listen to differing opinions bridging divides.
Detailed Description
In 'I Used to Like You Until...', the author examines how binary thinking traps us in loops of division and misunderstanding. Through a blend of storytelling and research, the book sets out to dismantle the overly simplistic lens through which society often views complex issues. Readers are invited to explore how adopting a more nuanced perspective can be a catalyst for deeper understanding.
Instead of labeling mindsets as inherently good or bad, the book encourages readers to see the humanity within differing perspectives. The author presents a series of real-world examples and scenarios that illustrate how binary thinking distorts reality and fuels conflict. By weaving together personal anecdotes with broader societal patterns, the narrative showcases how small shifts in perception can lead to big changes.
The narrative journeying through the pitfalls of dualistic thinking provides an enlightening framework for thinking beyond binaries. Rich with insights, the book lays bare the fallacies of strictly dividing opinions into opposites, urging readers to embrace the middle ground. It reveals how clinging to absolutes stunts growth and prevents the fostering of meaningful relationships in diverse settings.
By analyzing everyday interactions and larger societal conflicts, the book illuminates the pathways toward more empathetic and informed discourse. Binaries not only simplify but also distort, the author asserts; through various chapters, readers are shown the rewarding complexity that lies beyond. The book closes with a call to action, advocating for a cultural and personal shift towards more inclusive modes of communication.
Standout Features
This book captivates with its fusion of personal stories and societal analysis making complex ideas accessible and relatable By combining narrative with research it provides a multidimensional view of binary thinking A unique aspect is the practical approach that challenges readers to actively engage in self-reflection and dialogues beyond binaries It not only teaches but also inspires an actionable mindset shift Its emphasis on diversity in discourse and exploration of varied perspectives sets it apart as the author advocates for a balanced view in viewing the human experience Readers are equipped with tools for real-world application.
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Based on 46 ratings
Customer Reviews
I used to like her until…I read this book.
I really did like her and watch Gutfeld every night. While the book has some funny stories about her life, as a conservative, I found it kinda sickening from her views on religion to her personal viewpoint on drugs and living a nasty lifestyle. Returning tomorrow.
Must read
This is a must read. It delves into how our society is so divided and how we should listen to other people's opinions. We should stop writing people off just because you think they are a label (conservative or liberal, Democrat or Republican). If we could see beyond the labels and the emotion we would be a better world. There will never be a person or a book that you totally agree with everything about them or it, but there are wonderful things that you miss out on if you are unable to get beyond the labels society has placed on us or it.
Enjoyable overall read
The best parts of this book, for me, were the personal stories that were shared. I find Kat to be intelligent and captivating because her way of thinking and expression is unique. The least favorite parts for me were the studies she cited that I got quickly annoyed by. The overall premise of the book is absolutely true and people from all sides will benefit by reading it. I can't wait for her next book and hope it is all about her and nothing else is needed.
Blessed are the peacemakers
I bought this book because I wanted to learn more about the smart libertarian Gutfeld! show regular panelist, whose opinions I don’t always agree with, but whose opinions I also find to be well thought out whether I happen to agree or not. What makes this author fun on the Gutfeld! show is that she is not predictable, and this book wasn’t either. This book is written like the author talks. As I read the narrative, I could hear it in her voice. Each of the eleven chapters is like a structured, entertaining public speech with both comedy, self-disclosure, and a moral to the story. These aren’t rants, but rather what I would expect from an experienced public speaker who does stand-up comedy. Recent news events are mentioned, but unlike most political books which just fold them into a big, long rant where the author is trying to convert me to his or her opinion, in this case they are used to illustrate how this author learned a lesson about people, specifically about how treating people like individuals is far more healthy to the individual, and beneficial to society, than stereotyping people in a “binary” way (her term) and using “hate as a shelter” (a main book theme) to avoid serious thought about issues, self-examination and change. I’m glad I read this book. I’ve noticed in my boring life how politics seems to be making people crazier and crazier and far less human than they were in my younger years, and finally someone who makes their living in the political arena is coming forward and saying that it’s gone way too far, and that we’d all be better off in our day-to-day lives to step back a ways, and that there are powerful entities working behind the scenes that are benefiting from the crazy that is occurring at our expense. When we become tribal over politics, we lose, and powerful people we don’t know, and never will, win.
Great read
Kat hits the nail on the head in this book. Great read and highly recommend
A lot of people need to read this!
I have lost friends because they didn’t like how I voted. In one case it was a friend for over 50 years. I wish he had read this book. It might have made a difference. It makes me sad how divided we have become, and it makes it impossible to fix what needs fixing. This book is very well written, insightful, and oh so relevant. Kat shares a lot of life experiences I am sure she never thought she would. For background, I am a male, in my 70’s, who has never been registered in a political party. I have voted for both Democrats and Republicans, and I have good friends on both teams. I recommend this book without reservation. I read it in one day.
Honest, almost brutal honesty about herself
A great read from a very sharp mind. Kat Timph is fearless in turning the mirror on herself. But her life experiences, even from one so young, are clear, concise, humorous, and relevant today. It makes you think about yourself and how you deal with others.
Everyone Can Relate
Have lost friends because of politics. Forced to have a fake FB page because of politics. Currently have my Trump 2024 political signs INSIDE my house for fear of retribution. This book was just what I needed right now. Great insight followed up with facts and figures about how judgmental and narrow minded we all are when it comes to viewing people outside of our "group." Kat is honest, funny, a bit crass (LOL) and just herself on every page. I also can't believe how much she and I have in common. Maybe it's a Detroit thing. Maybe it's losing our moms at such a young age. There is something in this book for everyone. Keep and open mind and heart and you will benefit.
