Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise by Justin Zorn - 4 stars

[Joy D]

Golden: The Power of Silence in a World of Noise by Justin Zorn and Leigh Marz - 4* - My Review

This book examines noise in our society, and advocates turning down the volume. In this case, noise includes not only loud sounds, but also the many distractions of the information age, particularly online activities and mobile devices. The authors advocate “digital minimalism” as a primary way to attain a more peaceful life. They provide evidence that silence (and limiting distractions of our busy world) is a dynamic force for healing and achieving clarity of thought.

They cite the fallacies of measuring success through a nation’s Gross Domestic Product (among other indicators), which does not account for the damage done to the environment or to mental health of its citizens. They emphasize the positive attributes of mindfulness but try not to get too “new-agey.” They cite scientific studies that support the benefits of silence in refreshing the brain. There are also a variety of interesting anecdotes.

The authors support ideas I have read in other books about the need to be intentional about what “noise” we allow into our lives rather than going down internet rabbit holes, endless clicking on more inflammatory so-called “news” articles or allowing advertising to influence us. I enjoyed this book and can personally attest to the mental health benefits of digital minimalism. There are many “self-help” type suggestions, which could be useful to readers, or it can be read as a commentary on our technology-infused society and offering ideas for how to point it in a more positive direction.