Review: Belonging

Why and how do people experience a sense of belonging? How could we cultivate it?
These are the kinds of questions that inspired me to read this book. Did it provide the answers? Well, sort of, I guess. Certainly not in a way I would have liked. The book could have done with some further editing, and some more concrete signposts for how to land some of the research.
Who wrote it
Geoffrey Cohen is a professor of psychology at Stanford University.
Why I read it
Building community and helping people experience a sense of belonging is a key aspect of my role. I’d not come across much secular work on the subject in the past, so I was intrigued by this one. Plus, it turns out I’m a bit of a sucker for any book with a subtitle “The science of…”. I really enjoy digging into the inner workings.
What I liked
It was nice to read something so heavily researched on the topic of belonging and communities. I really appreciated the level of detail and evidence-based approach.
What I didn’t
There’s a lot of science and research here. I can’t fault it for that. I think the crucial flaw of the book was that it just didn’t make the research seem interesting. Much of the time, it seemed like very common sense that most people would have already guessed was true. It’s nice to have those instincts backed up by research, but I’m less convinced we needed 450 pages to make the point.
Major Takeaway
Books should only be as long as they need to make their point, and no longer.
Okay, that’s a bit harsh. But honestly, the sense that this book was unnecessarily long is my overwhelming memory of reading this one.
Who should read it
If you’re looking for some scientific research on the subject, this would be a great starting place. PLENTY of studies are referenced here. Not a great deal to recommend otherwise, I’m afraid.
Belonging
Why and how do people experience a sense of belonging? How could we cultivate it? These are the kinds of questions that inspired me to read this book. Did it provide the answers? Well, sort ...