The Molecule of More

Synopsis

2020 Next Generation Indie Book Awards Winner - Science Category
2018 Forward Indies Finalist - Psychology Category

Why are we obsessed with the things we want only to be bored when we get them? 

Why is addiction perfectly logical to an addict? 

Why does love change so quickly from passion to indifference? 

Why are some people die-hard liberals and others hardcore conservatives? 

Why are we always hopeful for solutions even in the darkest times-and so good at figuring them out?

The answer is found in a single chemical in your brain: dopamine. Dopamine ensured the survival of early man. Thousands of years later, it is the source of our most basic behaviors and cultural ideas-and progress itself. 

Dopamine is the chemical of desire that always asks for more-more stuff, more stimulation, and more surprises. In pursuit of these things, it is undeterred by emotion, fear, or morality. Dopamine is the source of our every urge, that little bit of biology that makes an ambitious business professional sacrifice everything in pursuit of success, or that drives a satisfied spouse to risk it all for the thrill of someone new. Simply put, it is why we seek and succeed; it is why we discover and prosper. Yet, at the same time, it's why we gamble and squander. 

From dopamine's point of view, it's not the having that matters. It's getting something-anything-that's new. From this understanding-the difference between possessing something versus anticipating it-we can understand in a revolutionary new way why we behave as we do in love, business, addiction, politics, religion-and we can even predict those behaviors in ourselves and others. 

In The Molecule of More: How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity-and will Determine the Fate of the Human Race, George Washington University professor and psychiatrist Daniel Z. Lieberman, MD, and Georgetown University lecturer Michael E. Long present a potentially life-changing proposal: Much of human life has an unconsidered component that explains an array of behaviors previously thought to be unrelated, including why winners cheat, why geniuses often suffer with mental illness, why nearly all diets fail, and why the brains of liberals and conservatives really are different.

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Summary

Chapter 1: The Molecule of More

Summary:

The chapter introduces the concept of "dopamine," a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, motivation, and addiction. It explains how the pursuit of dopamine can lead to a cycle of craving and consumption, ultimately resulting in burnout and diminishing returns.

Real-Life Example:

Sarah, a driven career woman, finds herself constantly striving for promotions and raises to boost her dopamine levels. However, despite her success, she feels increasingly stressed and dissatisfied, as the dopamine rush from each achievement fades quickly.

Chapter 2: The Power of Why

Summary:

This chapter emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and meaning in life, as it provides a more sustainable source of motivation than dopamine. It encourages exploring what truly fulfills us and aligning our actions with our values.

Real-Life Example:

David, a software engineer, realizes that his job no longer aligns with his passion for environmental activism. He decides to quit his high-paying position and volunteer for a non-profit organization, where he finds deep purpose and satisfaction.

Chapter 3: The Myth of Multitasking

Summary:

The chapter argues that multitasking is inefficient and counterproductive, as it depletes our cognitive resources and decreases our ability to focus. It advocates for focusing on one task at a time and giving it our undivided attention.

Real-Life Example:

Jessica, a student, tries to multitask by studying for exams, watching a movie, and checking her phone simultaneously. As a result, she ends up forgetting half of the material, missing key plot points, and feeling overwhelmed.

Chapter 4: The Magic of Now

Summary:

This chapter encourages living in the present moment and appreciating the simple joys of life. It suggests practicing mindfulness to reduce stress, increase gratitude, and enhance overall well-being.

Real-Life Example:

Michael, a busy executive, makes a conscious effort to pause and take a few minutes each day to savor his morning coffee, listen to his favorite music, or spend time in nature. These moments provide him with a sense of calm and rejuvenation amidst his hectic schedule.

Chapter 5: The Peril of Perfection

Summary:

The chapter warns against the dangers of perfectionism, as it can lead to procrastination, anxiety, and self-sabotage. It encourages embracing imperfection and recognizing that making mistakes is part of the learning and growth process.

Real-Life Example:

Emily, a perfectionist artist, struggles to complete her paintings because she fears they will not meet her impossibly high standards. As a result, she often gives up on projects and experiences intense feelings of shame and self-doubt.

Chapter 6: The Power of Small Wins

Summary:

This chapter emphasizes the importance of celebrating small victories and recognizing progress towards our goals. It suggests breaking down tasks into manageable steps and rewarding ourselves for completing each step.

Real-Life Example:

Adam, an aspiring writer, sets a goal to write 1,000 words per day. To make the task less daunting, he breaks it down into 4 sessions of 250 words each. Each time he finishes a session, he rewards himself with a small treat like a piece of chocolate or a break to listen to music.