Episode · People I (Mostly) Admire · 2023-09-16

Books mentioned on 114. Is Perfectionism Ruining Your Life?

2 books · With Thomas Curran · Listen · Watch on YouTube

Psychologist Thomas Curran argues that perfectionism isn’t about high standards — it’s about never being enough. He explains how the drive to be perfect is harming education, the economy, and our mental health.

Steve Levitt discussed The Perfection Trap by Thomas Curran. Thomas Curran recommended The Meritocracy Trap by Daniel Markovits.

Books mentioned, in the order they came up

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1. 

   The Perfection Trap

   Thomas Curran · at 1:14 · mentioned 7 times

   The Perfection Trap by Thomas Curran explores the hidden dangers of perfectionism and urges readers to embrace the power of being good enough in a society obsessed with relentless growth.

   Discussed

   “but the research done by Thomas and others that he describes in his brand new book The Perfection trap does a very different story”

   Steve Levitt 114. Is Perfectionism Ruining Your Life? 2023-09-16 Listen at 1:14

   Where to get it

   Listen free with an Audible trialAmazon
2. 

   The Meritocracy Trap

   Daniel Markovits · at 31:11

   The Meritocracy Trap by Daniel Markovits is a critical economic and sociological study arguing that modern meritocracy preserves inequality by concentrating wealth and status among an educated elite while exploiting both the rich and the working class.

   Recommended

   “Daniel markovitz is actually wrote a book called The meritocracy trout where he dealt with these issues in far more detail than I did”

   Thomas Curran 114. Is Perfectionism Ruining Your Life? 2023-09-16 Listen at 31:11

   Where to get it

   Listen free with an Audible trialAmazon