Summary of The Coddling of the American Mind

"The Coddling of the American Mind" is a nonfiction book written by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt, which explores the rise of a culture of safetyism on college campuses and its negative impact on students' mental health and academic progress. The authors argue that the increasing emphasis on protecting students from perceived harm has led to a generation of young people who are more anxious, less resilient, and unable to engage with challenging ideas. They propose that in order to reverse this trend, society must prioritize intellectual diversity, free speech, and open debate, and equip students with the tools to navigate discomfort and conflict in a healthy way. The book offers practical strategies for parents, educators, and students to cultivate a culture of resilience and develop the psychological skills needed to thrive in today's complex world.