The book outlines three major categories that these cues fall into: those that make up the world within us (the cues that we process independently of other people); the world between us (the cues that arise when we experience life in the presence of other people); and the world around us (the cues that make up the physical world). When combined, these forces are a major factor in determining our well being, wealth, health, and wisdom. An Assistant Professor of Marketing and Psychology at NYU’s Stern School of Business and Psychology Department, Alter's work focuses on the intersection of marketing, behavioral economics, and the psychology of judgment and decision-making. The book has gotten tons of positive press so far, even sparking the interest of Malcolm Gladwell who will interview Alter in New York on March 27. (Event details available here). Here's a few of the glowing reviews that have come in so far:
“You’ll laugh, you’ll gasp, you’ll shake your head in disbelief as Alter shows you that we are all, to some degree, balls in a giant pinball machine. If you want to see the bumpers — and regain some control of your destiny — read this delightful book.” — Jonathan Haidt, author of The Righteous Mind
“With remarkable clarity and subversive humor, Alter presents a radical new perspective on human nature.”
— Paul Bloom, author of How Pleasure Works
“Drunk Tank Pink is a smart and delightful introduction to some of psychology’s most curious phenomena and most colorful characters.” — Daniel Gilbert, author of Stumbling on Happiness
“Reading Adam Alter’s book will change the way you look at our world.” — Dan Ariely, author of Predictably Irrational
“I guarantee you’ll want to share the incredible anecdotes in Drunk Tank Pink with friends.” — Joshua Foer, author of Moonwalking with Einstein
“A fascinating compendium of the hidden currents that influence our thoughts, beliefs, and actions.”
— Gary Marcus, New Yorker columnist, and author of Guitar Zero
“Adam Alter’s book about the many ways our perceptions are affected is so compelling that it put me in a seriously suspicious frame of mind…Alter’s book is essentially a compendium of such studies, with a refreshing lack of editorializing; he seems to realize that his material does not require much to make it fascinating—not even a fancy font.” — The Smithsonian (a “Notable Book”)
“Adam Alter has applied his own inquisitiveness to compose a fascinating tome about the hidden things that make us think, act, and feel the way we do. The debut result will please readers of Malcolm Gladwell and other writers about unexpected wonders. Editor's recommendation.” — Barnes & Noble (A “Book of the Month” and “Editor's Recommendation” book)
