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.
White Dragon
This app has introduced me to genres I never thought I'd enjoy – it's eye-opening. This app is a must-have for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is intuitive, and the app supports all formats. I love the auto-bookmark feature—it saves my place automatically, so I never lose track. Highly recommend!
Freaky Ratbuster
The variety of narrators adds a unique touch to each book, making every experience special. With ListenBook, I can explore new genres, learn new topics, and enjoy classic literature with ease. This app's compatibility with different formats has made my audiobook collection diverse and enjoyable. 🚶♂️🌟 Embracing audiobooks as my companions during leisurely walks – nature and narratives, a perfect match! 🚶♂️🎧
Reed Lady
This app has become my ultimate travel companion, ensuring that I'm always entertained and inspired. 🎧 Carrying a world of literature in my headphones – this app's convenience is truly remarkable. 📚💫 I can't believe how seamless the integration with Apple Watch is. My workouts just got better. The compatibility with Apple Watch is a game-changer. Controlling my audiobooks from my wrist is genius.
VenusXX
With ListenBook, my daily commutes have become a cherished time for learning and enjoyment. 📱 Accessing my favorite stories has never been this straightforward – this app's functionality is a bookworm's dream come true. 📚💫 No more interruptions – the auto-rewind feature is a genius solution for seamless listening. Noise reduction and tone changing enhance the listening experience. Love it!
Pink Stream
The smart recommendation feature keeps surprising me with books I never knew I'd love. I'm grateful for this app, as it allows me to keep up with my reading even while multitasking. With this app, I've found a way to make my daily errands more enjoyable and intellectually stimulating. This app is a game-changer for anyone who's always on the go – it's like carrying a library in my pocket. This app's user-friendly layout and quick access to controls have made audiobook listening a breeze.
Shimmy Shammy
The quality of the audio is top-notch, making the experience truly immersive. Audiobooks have turned road trips into unforgettable journeys of imagination. I've been able to explore different cultures and perspectives through a diverse range of books. The app's interface is so sleek and modern. It's a joy to use.
Purity Catnip
ListenBook's support for multiple download methods ensures I can always access my favorite content. The ability to download audio from network devices directly within ListenBook is incredibly convenient. I'm addicted to this app – it's like having a library in my pocket. 📱 My pocket-sized library – this app makes reading accessible anytime, anywhere! 📚📱 I love the ability to change the playback pitch. It’s a unique feature.
Doll Champagne
ListenBook's commitment to providing top-notch audio quality has taken my audiobook experience to a new level. ListenBook's dedication to delivering an exceptional experience is evident in every detail. Kudos to the creators for crafting an app that understands audiobook lovers. With smooth playback and thoughtful design, it's a true companion for book enthusiasts. 📚👏 Incredible character voices! Each person felt distinct without being over-the-top. The emotional scenes gave me chills with how well they were delivered.
Bowie
I can't imagine a day without this app – it has made my audiobook journey effortless and rewarding. Discovering new worlds through audiobooks has never been easier! This app's intuitive interface and seamless functionality make every listening session a delight. 📚🎧 The ability to download audio from various sources without syncing is fantastic. ListenBook makes it so easy.
Grotas
I can't believe how easy it is to discover new titles and genres. Pure delight! ListenBook's beautiful layout and quick access to chapters make every listening session a pleasure. Audiobooks have become a source of inspiration and motivation, thanks to this app. Adjusting the tone of the voice adds a unique touch to my listening experience. I love the personalization! The app is very easy to use. ListenBook makes managing my audiobook library simple.
Star Scratch
ListenBook's integration of artwork and metadata adds a visually appealing touch to my library. Audiobook enjoyment redefined – this app's design focuses on the essentials. Binaural audio processing is amazing. Reduced my listening fatigue significantly.
Sokol
This app has turned even my mundane tasks into exciting learning opportunities. ListenBook is the best audiobook player I’ve found. The interface is clean and easy to use. ListenBook has completely transformed how I enjoy audiobooks. The chapter navigation is seamless, and the statistics feature is a fun way to track my listening progress. The app is stable, fast, and incredibly user-friendly. Five stars!
Tornado Maker
Audiobook immersion without complications – this app's ease of use is commendable. ListenBook's sleek layout and quick chapter access have made my audiobook journey incredibly enjoyable.
Solitaire
🎉 Rekindling my literary flame – this app has brought back the joy of reading in a whole new format. 📖🚀 Effortless audiobook management – this app's usability is a winner. The noise reduction feature is a game-changer for clearer dictaphone recordings.
Lady Katniss
I can't believe how much I've 'read' since I started using this app. With this app, every moment is an opportunity to dive into a new story. 🚗📚 Turn traffic into a literary escape – this app's functionality keeps me engaged while I'm on the move. 🚗🎧 Supports a wide range of formats flawlessly. Very happy with it.
Suicide Jockey
I'm enjoying books I never thought I'd be interested in – all thanks to this app. The narrator's voices are so engaging, it's like having a personal storytelling session. This app's user-friendly interface has made reading on-the-go a breeze. With ListenBook Pro, I can enjoy super long audiobooks. It's fantastic! The app is well-designed and user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a joy.
Feral Filly
With this app, I've turned my daily commutes into exciting journeys through the world of literature. Simplifying my reading routine – this app's ease of use is remarkable. ListenBook's interface is so intuitive. I was up and running in no time.
Metal Lady
Audiobooks at my fingertips – this app's functionality is truly impressive. ListenBook's extensive format support makes it the ultimate audiobook app for any audiobook lover.
NexusNavigator
ListenBook's support for multiple download methods ensures I can always access my favorite content. ListenBook's support for network device downloads and drag-and-drop is a time-saving delight. This app's ease of use has made my daily tasks so much more enjoyable. Looping playback is my secret weapon for language learning. It's revolutionized my approach.
Spunky Chick
I can't get enough of this app's intuitive design and user-friendly interface. With this app, I can switch seamlessly between my iPhone and iPad, making my reading experience continuous. 💡 This app's convenience is a blessing – I can squeeze in reading time between managing household tasks! 📱👩🍳 ListenBook has completely elevated my audiobook experience. It's an integral part of my daily routine. Solid performance, but not outstanding. The narrator did a fine job, though their tone was a bit monotonous at times. The story itself was engaging enough, but I wouldn’t call it unforgettable.
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