About the book
We all appreciate that there are differences in the typical psychology of men and women. Yet underlying these subtle differences, Simon Baron-Cohen believes, there is one essential difference, and it affects everything we do: Men have a tendency to analyze and construct systems while women are inclined to empathize. With fresh evidence for these claims, Baron-Cohen explores how these sex differences arise more from biological than cultural causes and shows us how each brain type contributes in various ways to what we think of as \"intelligence.\" Emphasizing that not all men have the typically \"male\" brain, which he calls Type \"S,\" and not all women have the typically female brain (Type \"E\"), Baron-Cohen explores the cutting-edge research that illuminates our individual differences and explains why a truly \"balanced\" brain is so rare. Filled with surprising and illuminating case studies, many from Baron-Cohen's own clinical practice, The Essential Difference moves beyond the stereotypes to elucidate over twenty years of groundbreaking research. From gossip to aggression, Baron-Cohen dissects each brain type and even presents a new theory that autism (as well as its close relative, Asperger's syndrome) can be understood as an extreme form of the male brain. Smart and engaging, this is the thinking person's guide to gender difference, a book that promises to change the conversation about-and between-men and women.
Editions of The Essential Difference
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780738208442
- EBook
- ISBN 9780786740314
Read an Excerpt
We all appreciate that there are differences in the typical psychology of men and women. Yet underlying these subtle differences, Simon Baron-Cohen believes, there is one essential difference, and it affects everything we do: Men have a tendency to analyze and construct systems while women are inclined to empathize. With fresh evidence for these claims, Baron-Cohen explores how these sex differences arise more from biological than cultural causes and shows us how each brain type contributes in various ways to what we think of as \"intelligence.\" Emphasizing that not all men have the typically \"male\" brain, which he calls Type \"S,\" and not all women have the typically female brain (Type \"E\"), Baron-Cohen explores the cutting-edge research that illuminates our individual differences and explains why a truly \"balanced\" brain is so rare. Filled with surprising and illuminating case studies, many from Baron-Cohen's own clinical practice, The Essential Difference moves beyond the stereotypes to elucidate over twenty years of groundbreaking research. From gossip to aggression, Baron-Cohen dissects each brain type and even presents a new theory that autism (as well as its close relative, Asperger's syndrome) can be understood as an extreme form of the male brain. Smart and engaging, this is the thinking person's guide to gender difference, a book that promises to change the conversation about-and between-men and women.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Essential Difference about?
We all appreciate that there are differences in the typical psychology of men and women. Yet underlying these subtle differences, Simon Baron-Cohen believes, there is one essential difference, and it affects everything we do: Men have a tendency to analyze and construct systems while women are inclined to empathize. With fresh evidence for these claims, Baron-Cohen explores how these sex differences arise more from biological than cultural causes and shows us how each brain type contributes in various ways to what we think of as \"intelligence.\" Emphasizing that not all men have the typically \"male\" brain, which he calls Type \"S,\" and not all women have the typically female brain (Type \"E\"), Baron-Cohen explores the cutting-edge research that illuminates our individual differences and explains why a truly \"balanced\" brain is so rare. Filled with surprising and illuminating case studies, many from Baron-Cohen's own clinical practice, The Essential Difference moves beyond the stereotypes to elucidate over twenty years of groundbreaking research. From gossip to aggression, Baron-Cohen dissects each brain type and even presents a new theory that autism (as well as its close relative, Asperger's syndrome) can be understood as an extreme form of the male brain. Smart and engaging, this is the thinking person's guide to gender difference, a book that promises to change the conversation about-and between-men and women.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in The Essential Difference?
Society and Social Sciences > Psychology
Where can I read a sample of The Essential Difference?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780738208442
How long is The Essential Difference and how many pages does it have?
The Essential Difference has 288 page(s)
Who is/are the Author/s of the book The Essential Difference?
Simon Baron-Cohen
Who is the Publisher of the book The Essential Difference?
Basic Books
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
The Essential Difference is available as paperback(ISBN 9780738208442) and ebook(ISBN 9780786740314)
Where can I buy The Essential Difference online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy The Essential Difference from below
Where can I buy The Essential Difference?