Belonging

The Science of Creating Connection and Bridging Divides

By: Geoffrey L. Cohen

Narrated by: Noah Michael Levine

Finalist for The Next Big Idea Bookclub

Book of the Year Selection Behavioral Scientist and Greater Good Society

"This is perhaps the richest book on belonging you'll ever [listen to] . . . The inspiration one draws from every page of this book is an enhanced sense of what is possible. It revives the very thing we need most in these times: hope." —Claude M. Steele, author of Whistling Vivaldi

Discover the secret to flourishing in an age of division: belonging. In a world filled with discord and loneliness, finding harmony and happiness can be difficult. But what if the key to unlocking our potential lies in this deceptively simple concept? Belonging is the feeling of being a part of a group that values, respects, and cares for us—a feeling that we can all cultivate in even the smallest corners of social life. In Belonging: The Science of Creating Connection and Bridging Divides, Stanford University professor Geoffrey L. Cohen draws on his own and others' groundbreaking scientific research to offer simple, concrete solutions for fostering a sense of belonging. These solutions can generate surprisingly significant and long-lasting benefits.

Small but powerful actions can bolster belonging—actions such as encouraging people to reflect on their core values before they face a challenge or expressing belief in someone's capacity to reach a higher standard. A wide range of innovative approaches have been found to boost achievement at work and at school, bridge political divides, reduce prejudice, and even contribute to overall health. Rigorously tested in diverse arenas—from classrooms to disadvantaged neighborhoods to iconic Silicon Valley companies—these methods offer a path forward in these demanding times. Belonging is a compelling book for all who yearn for a more connected world, whether you're a manager or employee, an educator or student, a parent or caregiver, or simply someone seeking to make the most out of every moment you spend with others. Packed with actionable insights and specific strategies, this book offers hope and practical guidance, serving as both an inspiration and a roadmap to creating a world of inclusion, understanding, and empathy.

©2022 Geoffrey L. Cohen (P)2022 HighBridge, a division of Recorded Books

Good to listen

The book has several important chapters. Overall I liked it However there are some jumps up between topics.

Excellent read

Comprehensive research to support the author's research. I highly recommend this book to everyone. Particularly to those in leadership positions.

Great book.

Great research that helps break down the elements of belonging and how we can craft situations to help support people find it.

Interesting book

Overall a good listen. The narration was a little bit mechanical so small doses make it easier to listen to. Some stories anecdotal stories in the book are one side and stereotypically charged

Excellent!

This book give insight into how we can craft situations to increase belonging and give people the best chance to be their best self.

Informative, especially politics chapter

I studied psychology in undergrad, so I was already familiar with some studies he mentioned.

The most notable contribution is the chapter on how to create belonging across political differences.

This book offers some practice advice based on psychological science on how to build belonging, yet it is not a self help book.

Narrator is okay. Not the most soothing voice, yet I got used to it.

Helpful, enjoyable, important

I took many notes on this book because it addresses a vital need that, while often unmet, can also often be addressed in small ways that have surprising impact. This is a well written survey of the fields of belonging, Rich with case studies and research, andwritten in an easily accessible and enjoyable way. I can imagine many people to whom I would like to gift this book.