Summary Of How to Know a Person by David Brooks:The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Seen

How to Know a Person by David Brooks

How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen" by David Brooks is a guide that explores the vital skill of deeply understanding and connecting with others, emphasizing its importance in a society faced with fragmentation and misunderstanding.

Brooks emphasizes the transformative power of seeing someone deeply and making them feel valued, heard, and understood, drawing on psychology, neuroscience, theater, philosophy, history, and education to offer an integrated approach to human connection.

The book starts with the premise that the ability to see someone else deeply and make them feel seen is essential for the health of individuals, families, schools, community organizations, and societies.

Despite its importance, Brooks notes that humanity often falls short in truly understanding and valuing each other, leading to societal challenges like fragmentation and hostility.