The Social Biome: How Everyday Communication Connects and Shapes Us

by Andy J. Merolla, Jeffrey A. Hall

A deep dive into the importance of daily communication and how we can harness its power to create a better life
 
We spend much of our waking lives communicating with others. How does each moment of interaction shape not only our relationships but also our worldviews? And how can we create moments of connection that improve our health and well-being, particularly in a world in which people are feeling increasingly isolated?
 
Drawing from their extensive research, Andy J. Merolla and Jeffrey A. Hall establish a new way to think about our relational as existing within “social biomes”—complex ecosystems of moments of interaction with others. Each interaction we have, no matter how unimportant or mundane it might seem, is a building block of our identities and beliefs. Consequently, the choices we make about how we interact and who we interact with—and whether we interact at all—matter more than we might know. Merolla and Hall offer a sympathetic, practical guide to our vital yet complicated social lives and propose realistic ways to embrace and enhance connection and hope.

Genres: Nonfiction, Relationships, Communication, Psychology

256 pages, Hardcover

Published February 11, 2025

Reviews

[Bethany Hanson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like the concept of the social biome & I probably would have appreciate the book more if I hadn’t just finished bowling alone AND palaces for the people. I think this is just another way to think about social connections & does a great job giving some actionable items.
My one annoyance with the book that I’m still struggling to get over is the rough assessment of “energy” (continuously relates this to physiologic energy expenditure vs emotional or mental energy) && discussion of the PA Compendium. Example- relaxing & regaining energy a hard conversation the author says “thanks mitochondrial” 🤦‍♀️

[Hannah Overbye · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Social Biome is now one of my favorite books! Andy and Jeff present well-researched insights on communication in a way that is both practical and deeply empathetic. Every time I sit down to read this book I leave wanting to call a friend, schedule coffee, send a text or find a way to engage with others.

I fully plan to not only re-read this book, but also send it to my friends and family. 5/5

[Adam Parrilli · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of good information and research-built ideas in this book. At times it read a bit too clinical and a bit dry, nonetheless, a worthy read.

[Albert · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had high hopes for the book after listening to a podcast. Unfortunately it was unfocused, tangential, and lacking in practical application.