TOW #16 (IRB Post): Quiet by Susan Cain

Quiet has exposed me to a lot of information and studies that I never would have known about had I not read this book. Throughout the course of this book, Cain has approached the differences between introversion and extroversion from many different angles and contexts, and supported her claims with an assortment of sources, from the conclusions of studies to the quotes of experts. All of this has made for a very convincing book, but I think it may not be the only reason.

Cain uses rhetorical devices to aid in her persuasion. Specifically, I noticed one in part 2, where she discusses “reward-sensitivity”, a trait more prevalent in extroverts that makes a person more excited about pursuing a goal because of a potential reward. She lists the positive effects of this trait first, and then presents counterarguments by listing positive traits that introverts, who generally are not as “reward-sensitive”, would have. I observed this strategy of counterargument many times throughout the book, and I think it helps to emphasize the power of introverts over extroverts, which seems to be Cain’s purpose. Even with these persuasive strategies in mind, I still believe Cain achieved her purpose, by showing the need for introverts in society in order to maintain a balance. After all, the majority of Cain’s audience is probably made up of introverts seeking a positive description of themselves. Therefore, they would probably be less skeptical of the validity of Cain’s conclusion, potentially unlike someone who believes extroverts are more fit for society.

In addition to the evidence of research throughout Quiet, this book was published in 2013. Given this context, it would be reasonable to assume the facts are relevant and not outdated. In fact, many of the studies Cain references are ground-breaking and new to the entire field.