The mind is constantly gathering, sorting and often discarding endless sensory inputs from the world. Most of it is noise, but often thoughts are flagged as worthy of our conscious attention. Occasionally, the mind insists something is important though our consciousness doesn't understand why. One might describe this as 'that nagging feeling'. This book is a collection of case studies that are mercifully light on scientific jargon and relate well to experiences we all know. I've interacted with and worked under people who consistently misunderstood the power of intuitive decision making. It's easy and intellectually lazy to point to a chart, a graph, a spreadsheet, or an equation and say, 'This is why we should go this way'. It takes guts and willpower to rely equally on your own life experience too. You won't always be right, but I believe, as this book does, that you'll be right much more often than you think.

very eye opening

Couldn't finish.

Profiles professionals who are able to make accurate snap judgements in their field of expertise but doesn't really explain how they know what they know nor does it give practical advice as to how the ordinary person can make an accurate versus erroneous assessment in the blink of an eye.

I don't tend to read a lot of nonfiction, but a friend highly recommended Gladwell's works. Gladwell covered a vast area in this book, documenting thought in relation to everything from spousal realationships to the marketing of Pepsi and Coke. I was both impressed and disturbed at the thought of someone being able to determine the longevity of a relationship in a matter of minutes. Yet, when it comes down to it, we all make conclusions like that everyday. I find myself more aware of my thought process and curious as to what has led me to make the impressions I have due to this book.

one of my all-time favourites "edit details"

I don't always agree with Malcolm Gladwell but I do find his books thought-provoking!

Good, easy read - interesting. Not entirely earth shattering as I was expecting based on the reviews, but certainly makes you think twice about the first impression you make.

My university psychology textbook references this book so many times...it is an influential book. Definitely read it; it's another mark of Gladwell's power to captivate through the world of psychology, proving that his success in "The TIpping Point" has not overshadowed his charming prose in this one.

This was a really interesting and insightful book. If only I was able to easily retain information... What I learned from this read would be helpful and useful in my dealings with people (I just can never remember details...)