Book description
A Next Big Idea Club Must Read of February 2025From the author of The Social Leap comes this thought-provoking exploration into humans' two core evolutionary needs, for connection and autonomy, how the modern world has thrown them out of whack, and how we can rebalance them to improve our lives.Why do people who have so much-leading comfortable lives filled with unprecedented freedom, choice, and abundance-often feel so unhappy and unfulfilled? This phenomenon is a defining paradox of our time and one we endlessly seek to solve. In The Social Paradox, psychologist William von Hippel argues that we need to think about this problem in a new way. By changing our perspective, we might finally see the solution, bringing us greater happiness and more satisfying relationships.The key is to understand the interplay between our two most basic psychological needs-for connection and autonomy. Evolution made us dependent on one another for survival, instilling in us a strong need to connect. It also made us seek autonomy, so our ancestors could distinguish themselves within their groups, improving their chances to procreate and gain status.These two opposing needs are our most fundamental psychological drivers, and while our lives once ensured a happy balance between them, the opportunities of today's world have thrown it out of whack. As von Hippel explains, our modern world no longer demands connection but it provides endless opportunity for autonomy; this lopsidedness lies at the root of many of our most intractable problems. Recognizing this imbalance and working to counter it can drastically change how we make decisions, spend our time, and find happiness.The Social Paradox invites us to examine the fundamental building blocks of life and society-politics, religion, urban living, marriage-in a brand-new way. Once we understand the evolutionary forces driving us, we can begin to see how to counteract the emptiness and loneliness of contemporary life.
Duchess
Supports artwork and metadata perfectly. My library looks great! This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work! One of the best audiobooks I’ve heard! The story was compelling, and the narrator’s delivery added depth to every scene. I found myself looking for excuses to listen just a little longer. Will definitely revisit this one!
Texas Butterfly
I'm hooked on this app – it's like Netflix for book lovers! I'm no longer missing out on great stories – this app fits perfectly into my lifestyle. I'm blown away by the app's performance. It's fast, reliable, and tailored for audiobook lovers. The adjustable playback speed is a secret weapon for getting through educational content faster. The statistics tracking feature is very useful. ListenBook helps me keep track of my listening time.
The Dude
Now I can enjoy my favorite books anytime, even during workouts. The ListenBook app has enriched my daily life, adding a layer of intellectual and emotional fulfillment. 🚗📚 Turn traffic into a literary escape – this app's functionality keeps me engaged while I'm on the move. 🚗🎧 Bookmarks are a fantastic organizational tool. They help me keep track of important moments in my audiobooks.
Spooky Electric
I'm in awe of how this app has brought new dimensions to my reading experience. Audiobook enjoyment redefined – this app's design focuses on the essentials. Sharing audiobooks through AirDrop is a delightful way to spread the joy of storytelling. A fun feature!
Pepper Mouse
This app's sleek design and intuitive navigation have made audiobook listening a seamless experience. ListenBook's noise reduction feature in the Pro version is a testament to the app's commitment to audio quality. Book groups feature keeps series and related titles together. Neat and tidy! ListenBook Pro's noise reduction is a lifesaver. I can hear clearly even in noisy environments.
Contrary Mary
ListenBook's features make it the ultimate audio companion for any audiobook enthusiast. I can't imagine my audio routine without ListenBook's seamless and user-friendly design. With this app, I've discovered a new way to make my workouts and downtime more engaging and insightful. Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's functionality is a game-changer. The app's integration with CarPlay enhances my road trips with immersive audiobook journeys.
DreadSherX
My child has also fallen in love with audiobooks, all thanks to the app's kid-friendly collection. ListenBook's configurable auto-rewind after interruptions is a smart addition that keeps me on track. Navigating audiobooks with ease – this app's functionality is a standout.
PixelPathfinder
ListenBook's intuitive design and thoughtful features have made my audiobook experience delightful. 🎙️ Grocery shopping has taken an exciting turn – I'm on a mission to explore new worlds through audiobooks! 🛒📚
PixelPathfinder
I'm hooked on this app's sleek design and seamless performance – it's a must-have for any reader. My study sessions are more efficient than ever, thanks to the looping playback and bookmark features.
Hex Panther
I've never experienced such silky-smooth playback even with high-quality FLAC files. The app’s design is sleek and modern. ListenBook is my favorite audiobook player.
Chameleon
I've never experienced such a smooth audiobook player. The playback is seamless. Tone adjustment adds a new layer of personalization to my audiobook experience. It's like having the narrator tailor the voice to my preferences. Adjusting the narrator's voice tone is a fantastic feature. It adds a personal touch. An unobjectionable but unexceptional audiobook experience. The narrator's performance was serviceable and the audio quality was fine, but nothing about the production particularly stood out or elevated the material. It was decent background listening.
CuriousCrafter
This app has turned my daily commute into a source of inspiration and entertainment. Efficient audiobook enjoyment – this app's functionality is a revelation. One of the best audiobooks I’ve heard! The story was compelling, and the narrator’s delivery added depth to every scene. I found myself looking for excuses to listen just a little longer. Will definitely revisit this one!
Noh Noh
Audiobook enthusiasts, celebrate! This app's thoughtful features, like auto-rewind and easy chapter navigation, cater perfectly to our reading cravings. 🎉📚 What a delightful listening experience! The narrator's timing was impeccable, knowing exactly when to pause for effect or let the words flow. Their character voices were distinct yet natural - no over-the-top accents or distracting vocal tics. The audio quality was consistently excellent. This was a competent audiobook production with no major flaws. The narrator's voice was pleasant enough and the audio quality was acceptable, though not exceptional. While the performance didn't particularly stand out, it served its purpose adequately for my daily commute.
Shwatson
ListenBook has made audiobook listening a personalized and enriching journey. Sharing audiobooks with friends is so easy with AirDrop. It's a great way to spread happiness.
Energy
I can't believe how much more productive I am – I'm learning and growing while multitasking! Thank you for making my reading goals more achievable and enjoyable. 🌌 Whether I'm cooking, commuting, or relaxing at home, this app's seamless functionality keeps me engaged in captivating narratives. 🎧✨
Trixie Doodle
Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop and Sharing on ListenBook is a fantastic way to spread the joy of listening. Audiobook joy made simple – this app's ease of use is a true marvel. Chapters make it so easy to pick up where I left off. No more hunting around. I love the chapter navigation feature. ListenBook makes it easy to find specific sections.
Pixie
ListenBook's integration with CarPlay and Apple Watch has streamlined my multitasking. ListenBook's compatibility with CarPlay is a major convenience during road trips. ListenBook’s interface is clean and intuitive. It’s a joy to use.
Prez Dog
This app has become my ultimate travel companion, ensuring that I'm always entertained and inspired. This app's seamless integration with my devices has made audiobook listening a hassle-free experience. I can't believe how easy it is to dive into a new world with this app. Automatic extraction of artwork and metadata adds a professional touch to my library. A textbook example of great audiobook narration! The performer's diction was flawless, their pacing ideal, and their emotional range impressive. I never felt like I was being "read to" but rather like I was experiencing the story firsthand. The audio engineering was equally professional.
Dove Dolce
It's like having a personal library that fits in my pocket – truly amazing! ListenBook Pro offers amazing value with unlimited audiobook length and noise reduction features. This app is a blessing for those with busy schedules – it's like time travel through stories. Supports a wide range of formats flawlessly. Very happy with it. ListenBook’s design is sleek and modern. The app is a pleasure to use.
Roller Girl
This app's ease of use has made my daily tasks so much more enjoyable. I can't believe how convenient this app has made my reading experience. I'm blown away by the attention to detail in every aspect of this app. ListenBook’s playback is silky-smooth. The app never glitches.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience