Compassionate Houston’s Book studies
Compassionate Houston is delighted to announce our book study program for 2024!
After two years of our summer book readings, we have decided to expand and offer FOUR seasonal book studies throughout the year. We are pleased to introduce our amazing book study champion and dedicated Compassionate Houston volunteer, Marlin Murdock, who will be facilitating these enlightening discussions.
Meet people of our rich community once a week over a 4-week period, bringing together a multitude of perspectives on topics aimed to foster a greater understanding of compassion, kindness, respect and identify personal and public ways to practice it regularly.
Our book studies are conducted virtually as they offer several benefits compared to in-person meeting such as comfort and convenience, cost-effectiveness as participants can save on transportation costs and troubles driving through Houston’s traffic, larger outreach, and easy accessibility.
Our book studies are always free of charge. Offering them is part of our mission to cultivate compassion in Greater Houston.
If you are able to make a donation to our nonprofit 501(c)(3) at any time, that kind act is most appreciated.
Conclusion of Seasonal Book Studies 2024
We are concluding our seasonal book studies with Parker Palmer's updated edition of "Healing the Heart of Democracy: The Courage to Create a Politics Worthy of the Human Spirit.” To kick off our study, we were excited to welcome Parker Palmer for a live 30-minute introduction and Q&A session on October 10.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated throughout the year, and we are eagerly anticipating an engaging exploration in 2025.
1st Quarter Book Study 2025
Dr. Jamil Zaki is a professor of psychology at Stanford University and the director of the Stanford Social Neuroscience Lab.
Hope for Cynics: The Surprising Science of Human Goodness – September 3, 2024
Hope for Cynics by Jamil Zaki explores the inherent capacity for kindness, empathy, and altruism in humans. Zaki presents compelling research and anecdotes that highlight the positive aspects of human nature, even in challenging circumstances. He argues that understanding and nurturing our innate goodness can lead to stronger communities and healthier relationships. Through a blend of scientific insights and personal stories, the book encourages readers to recognize and cultivate the positive traits within themselves and others.
We are excited to kickstart our 2025 book study season with a “ray of light” and hope you will join us on this four-week journey.
Links to various book retailers on Zaki’s website > here.
Dates: Four consecutive Thursday evenings, February 6, 13, 20, 27
Time: 7:00 to 8:30pm
Location: Online via Zoom
Facilitators: Pam Lewis and Marlin Murdock
Editorial Reviews of Hope for Cynics
“There has always been an emotional case for hope, but now there is a rational one. Jamil Zaki’s new book is beautiful, wise, and important—a sensible, scientific, and much-needed tonic for what ails us.
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“Zaki paints an optimistic yet realistic view of where things stand without papering over the obstacles to building trust in increasingly divided societies. This will convince readers they don’t need to bury their heads in the sand to envision a more hopeful future.
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“A refreshing look at why ‘people are probably better than you think’… With both heart and academic rigor, Zaki should persuade many cynics to trust in hope.”
Reflections, insights, and testimonials
““The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.””