In Praise of Introverts

I recently encountered a book by Susan Cain entitled "Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that can't stop Talking." It's a fascinating book so far, and if you don't feel like reading it just yet, this video may offer a helpful introduction and overview to the its main themes.

Mrs. Cain makes a number of interesting points, suggesting on the whole that society stands to benefit by respecting and encouraging introverts to embrace their unique personalities. It's not always easy in a society which values people with magnetic, dominant, and energetic personalities. But as Mrs. Cain argues, we lose much by simply following the people with the loudest voice and most energetic agenda, since such people on average are no more correct in their opinions and assumptions than those with a quieter disposition. For better or worse, many people seem to assume extroverts are correct because they demonstrate confidence in the face of uncertainty.

I think this tendency is important to bear in mind, particularly in an age of mass-communication where extroverted, opinionated people tend to get the most exposure. It's also important because valuing extroversion can unnecessarily alienate introverts, leading some to feel somehow inferior to their more-talkative, out-going peers. One might even imagine parents, teachers, and others putting pressure on introverts to conform to the extrovert ideal, if for no other reason than to help them succeed in a society which values the social and out-going above all.

I believe we need introverts and extroverts all along the spectrum of possibility in order to have a thriving society. All personalities seem to have strengths and weaknesses depending on the circumstance, and the society which fosters a great diversity of personalities may also prove the society most adaptable to challenge and change. This would seem particularly important in a world where challenge and change happen so rapidly. In that vein, I hope we always have a quiet, thoughtful portion of the population to balance the boisterous, often-friendly, and energetic component which so many value and emulate today.

Happy Thursday, friends :)

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