Maria Konnikova
What’s inside
The Confidence Game’ by Maria Konnikova explores the world of con artists, examining the psychological principles that underpin their tricks. Konnikova delves into the minds of both the con artist and their victims, revealing the complex interplay of emotions and cognitive biases that allow cons to thrive. The book weaves together a series of gripping stories, scientific research, and historical examples to demystify the art of the con and show how our innate trust and desire for meaning can be exploited.
You’ll Learn
- Understanding the psychological mechanisms behind scams and cons
- Learning how to better protect oneself from deception
- Gaining insight into human behavior and decision-making
- Enhancing critical thinking skills when evaluating trustworthiness
Key Points
- The Psychology of the Con Artist
- Victim Profiles: Who is Susceptible
- The Role of Trust and Deception
- Manipulating Reality: How Cons are Constructed
- The Lifecycle of a Con
- Historical Case Studies of Notorious Cons
- Defensive Strategies Against Cons
Who’s it For
- Psychology enthusiasts
- True crime fans
- Behavioral scientists
- Professionals in security and fraud prevention
- Anyone interested in human behavior and susceptibility
About the author
Maria Konnikova is a journalist, professional poker player, and the author of ‘Mastermind: How to Think Like Sherlock Holmes’. She holds a Ph.D. in psychology from Columbia University and writes for The New Yorker, among other publications. Konnikova has a talent for making complex psychological concepts accessible and intriguing to a broad audience.