What happened to common decency? And how do we move forward to cooperation and kindness? Take a quick scan of the headlines and… wow.
From disrespect to elaborate deceptions, it’s easy to question whether indecency has taken root in our society. Some people are doing what they think is “right” while others are wondering how they could do something so terribly, morally “wrong.” It can make you wonder: Do we even share common values anymore? Rooted in Decency reveals some surprising reasons behind why people are acting so divisively toward each other and why that can make life feel so off-balance. Each chapter offers “a-ha” insights that guide readers to better understand how the current culture may be affecting them personally; insights that help us make sense of how other people are acting; and illuminating ideas about the core values that create inner peace, even when the world seems so unstable.
While it’s based on intriguing research from modern science to ancient moral philosophy, Rooted in Decency is written in straightforward language for a busy audience. Each chapter is a short conversation that presents brilliant insights—from neuroscience to happiness science, from Aristotle to Buddha—that bring new light to today’s moral dilemmas. Find intriguing discussions like:
- Why people are so willing to believe lies
- How happiness is tied to self-respect
- Which core values the world’s major religions have in common
- Why you can't shame someone into agreeing with you
Journey through all the chapters and discover that we do, in fact, share common values. The included journaling prompts offer actionable steps to clarify your moral compass, and help all of us move forward to a place that’s rooted in decency.
Semi Finalist
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: This is a wonderful work, proving to be smart, engaging, and thorough. No matter what side of the political/moral fence readers find themselves on, they will nod with approval as they read the author's insights. As comprehensive as is possible, and certainly thought-provoking, there is much here that may open minds and help bridge the nation's divide.
Prose: What might otherwise be a dry and lifeless topic is handled brilliantly here. The writing touches the reader in a personal way and draws them in, keeping them hooked.
Originality: This is a highly original work with a unique perspective, and Doyle Bryant does not shy away from exploring these topics deeply.
Character Development/Execution: The main character here is really the human race, as the author explores how people react and think. Doyle Bryant gives the world exactly what it needs right now, a thoughtful and accessible examination of common decency and unbiased options for bridging common ground to overcome our differences.
Blurb: Bryant gives the world exactly what it needs right now - a thoughtful and accessible examination of common decency and unbiased options for bridging common ground to overcome our differences.
Date Submitted: November 13, 2022
