In Conversation: Princeton Philosopher Eleanor Gordon-Smith on "Stop Being Reasonable"

Located in the heart of Oxford Street, the Berkelouw Paddington store opened in March, 1994 and has since become something of an institution amongst Sydney’s literary community. Paddington’s three storeys house an extensive range of new, rare and secondhand books.In keeping with Oxford Street’s famous round-the-clock lifestyle, the store is open until very late most nights of the week, attracting an interesting and eclectic variety of customers. Upstairs is the popular and vibrant cafe/wine bar, which is a great place to enjoy the ambience whilst enjoying some delicious food, wine, coffee and cake.

Berkelouw Books, Paddington

Dear reader, 
Join us for an interesting and delightful philosophical conversation with one of today's most exciting new voices in philosophy: Eleanor Gordon-Smith. We are lucky to host Eleanor on May 16th at 6.30 at Berkelouw Books Paddington, where she will be in conversation about her new book, "Stop Being Reasonable," with bookseller Kyra Maya Phillips. 
Eleanor Gordon-Smith is a writer and radio broadcaster working at the intersection of academic ethics and the muddy chaos of life between real humans. Currently at Princeton University, she has produced The Philosopher’s Zone on Australia’s Radio National, appeared as the Clinical Ethicist on local Sydney radio, and taught classes on ethics at the University of Sydney from environmental responsibility to the philosophy of sex. Her work has appeared in The Sydney Morning Herald, The Australian, Meanjin, and on This American Life.
At a time when much of our debate is polarised, this book explores the complexity and challenges involved in changing our mind…or someone else’s. What does it take to change our mind? How does persuasion work? Why do we ignore compelling evidence? And does it always matter? In "Stop Being Reasonable," philosopher Eleanor Gordon-Smith tells gripping true stories that show the limits of human reason. She explores the complexity, stakes and emotion involved in changing our mind, from rusted-on catcallers in the back streets of Kings Cross to Susie, whose husband harbours a terrible secret. Dylan leaves the cult he’s been raised in since birth and Alex discovers he can no longer return to his former identity after impersonating someone else for a month on reality TV . 
Weaving contemporary philosophy with these illuminating real-world stories, Gordon-Smith grapples with how we change our mind about who we really are – or don’t. 
We hope to welcome you on the 16th!
See you soon, 
The team at Berkelouw Books Paddington

19 Oxford St

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