[This Week's Books] 'Humans Crave Rituals' and More

Humans Crave Rituals

This book scientifically explains the functional effects of rituals using methodologies from social psychology and neuroscience. Humans encounter various rituals from birth to death. The author emphasizes that rituals, which may seem like mere formalities, actually possess the power to transform people. Although rituals have no practical effects, they create a certain order that helps humans cope with uncertain situations. Rituals also serve to unite not only those who perform them but also those who sympathize with them. (Written by Dimitris Xygalatas / Translated by Kim Miseon / Minumsa)

Villains of the Market

This book introduces the history of evil deeds and immorality committed by giant corporations that control the world.

The author points out that in the pursuit of profit, companies have often neglected issues such as life, the environment, social responsibility, and human rights. It uncovers the dark histories of 24 major corporations.

Among them, two domestic companies, Daewoo Group and Hanbo Group, which have already disappeared into history, are included. The remaining 22 foreign companies include Nike, Foxconn, Coca-Cola, Amazon, Nestl?, Mitsubishi, Uber, Walmart, and others. (Written by Lee Wanbae / Booktrigger)

Project Designer

This book reveals the rules for project success that turn ideas into reality. Approximately 16,000 projects were analyzed and investigated. When considering cost, schedule, and benefits, the rate at which projects were achieved as originally planned was only 0.5%. The author examines the causes that make most projects deviate from their original plans and explains ways to increase the likelihood of project success. Interesting advice is given through specific cases such as the Empire State Building, iPod development, and the Sydney Opera House project. (Written by Bent Flyvbjerg and Dan Gardner / Translated by Park Youngjun / Hankyung)