The Sense of Style: The Thinking Person's Guide to Writing in the 21st Century
A cognitive science approach to clear, effective writing
"The curse of knowledge is the single best explanation of why good people write bad prose."
— Steven Pinker
My Review
Pinker applies cognitive science to writing style. His concept of the 'curse of knowledge' - forgetting what it's like not to know something - is central to effective communication.
Why It Matters
Effective signaling requires understanding what the receiver doesn't know. Pinker's framework improves communication by modeling the reader's perspective.
Key Ideas
- The curse of knowledge impairs communication
- Classic style: writer guides reader through a scene
- Grammar rules are often myths
- Clarity comes from understanding the reader's mind
How It Connects to This Framework
Book 5's communication concepts, particularly honest and clear signaling.
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The full Biology of Business book explores these concepts in depth with practical frameworks.