Head versus Heart

by Michael Hampson

Based on the enneagram, it is the most important new material on it in thirty years. It uncovers for the first time the logic behind the system.

320 pages, Paperback

First published February 25, 2005

Reviews

[John Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting book about the Enneagram from a Christian viewpoint. The author looks at how the Enneagram diagram develops from three 'zones' we all have - head, heart and 'gut'- and the strategies we use, leading to nine 'types'.

I've read many books on this topic, but have never previously come across one that explains how the nine Enneagram types develop, and what the relationships are between them. The author goes quite deeply into the security and stress points, and explains why certain relationships are likely to work better than others, although of course a great deal depends on the mental and emotional health level of each individual.

There are examples of Bibical characters who seem to show the characteristics of each of the nine types. There's also a fascinating insight into how the Lord's Prayer can be said, considering each Enneagram type in turn.

At the end is an appendix looking at how the Enneagram pattern fits into such diverse activities as farming, politics, and the church year. I found these sections a little difficult to swallow, I have to admit. But overall I found the book fascinating and will no doubt dip into it again in future.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like the modern interpretation of such an old and mystic personality system (just with the use of 3's and 9's alone! :P)