Chasing We-ness: Cultivating Empathy and Leadership in a Polarized World

by William Marsiglio

As humans, we embrace our individuality, yet we chase the comfort and sense of purpose that comes from being part of a group. Especially timely given our polarized world, Chasing We-ness examines how social media, AI, new leadership styles, and other modern developments affect our state of we-ness. It illuminates how our contemporary identities find expression in both progressive and conservative social movements that foster a sense of we-ness. Embracing the reality that "we’re all in this together," the book interrogates our efforts to achieve a state of we-ness that rejects hate, social injustice, and autocratic agendas in the twenty-first century.

This book explores why, how, and with what effect we build we-ness into our lives in both healthy and destructive ways. William Marsiglio draws on his expertise as a leading sociologist to explore the motivational forces that inspire a sense of group belonging in intimate groups, civic organizations, thought communities, sports and leisure activities, and work. Promoting initiatives that cultivate mindfulness, empathy, altruism, and leadership, Chasing We-ness proposes essential life skills to empower us, reduce social divisions, strengthen the social fabric, and uplift our spirits as global citizens.

Genres: Personal Growth, Nonfiction

492 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 7, 2023

Reviews

[David Kitchen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a big fan of cultivating empathy and trust. My wife found this book at a bookstore on vacation and just judging by the title, she thought I would like it. She was right. It's all about being aware of and intentionally creating we-ness, both dydactic and ideational. It is VERY thorough. Over 400+ pages of academic tone, which was hard to get through at times. Not a quick read, but an inspiring read. If you want to be inspired to be a better person, leader, and neighbor, pick up this book.

[Jill Fernandes]

Belonging is such a difficult subject to tackle, and yet we know that belonging is vital for human wellbeing. The question that many sociologists struggle with is how to practically cultivate belonging, especially since it’s so hard to define. In this comprehensive book, Marsiglio makes belonging achievable, breaking it down into concrete life skills that can be intentionally cultivated. Weaving together prominent modern theories of sociology with expertly selected examples from popular culture, including books, movies, TV shows, apps, social movements, and news stories, Chasing We-ness explores how humans seek a feeling of affinity and group belonging with others.  

The resounding message of Chasing We-ness is one of optimism. Marsiglio encourages us to honor our shared humanity and embrace a more progressive view of human nature that moves us away from self-interest and towards collaborative, network-based strategies that promote a higher quality of life for all.