Assholes: A Theory

TL;DR

A book review discussing the concept of "assholes" and how one's sense of entitlement can lead to disrespectful behavior.

Transcript

thanks to the Discord I recently got introduced to the book asshole's a theory it's written by professor of philosophy at the University of California who happens to be an Avid surfer Aaron James was inspired to write this book after countless surf sessions were ruined by refusing to adhere to the rules of right-of-way in regards to a tasty wave Ja... Read More

Key Insights

• 👻 The concept of assholes encompasses individuals who systematically allow themselves special advantages out of a sense of entitlement.
• 😣 Assholes can range from minor acts of selfishness to more severe behaviors that harm others and society.
• 🧘 The book accurately positioned Donald Trump as an asshole, reflecting his behavior and its impact on society.
• 🌥️ Assholes can affect individuals and society by prioritizing personal enrichment over cooperation and the larger social cost.
• 🙈 Being an asshole can make marginalized individuals feel empowered and seen, but it also exacerbates divisions and inequalities.
• 🟰 It is important to address assholes and demand equal treatment, even if their behavior is unlikely to change.
• 💖 The book provides a philosophical exploration of the concept of assholes, sparking discussion and reflection on one's own behavior.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does the author define an asshole?

The author defines an asshole as someone who allows themselves special advantages out of a sense of entitlement, but also listens to the complaints of others before willfully ignoring them.

Q: Is being an asshole a gendered term?

While the term asshole is not inherently gendered, the author argues that gendered behavior can fall under the category of being an asshole, such as betraying someone behind their back or failing to recognize them to their face.

Q: How does being an asshole affect individuals and society?

Being an asshole can make people feel empowered and entitled to the same enrichments as others, even if it comes at the expense of cooperation and the larger social cost. In society, assholes can destabilize systems and prevent cooperation, as seen in capitalism.

Q: What can individuals do when confronted with an asshole?

The review suggests that individuals should speak up and assert their rights, even if their words likely won't change the asshole's behavior. It's important to address the asshole and demand equal treatment.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The book "Assholes: A Theory" explores the idea of assholes as individuals who take advantage of others and ignore their complaints out of a sense of entitlement.

• The author argues that assholes can range from minor examples, like taking the last deviled eggs at a picnic, to more egregious behavior, such as making fun of disabled people or contesting election results.

• The review highlights how the book accurately positioned Donald Trump as an asshole, predicting his behavior and its impact on society.