"The Courage to Be Disliked," a bestselling book by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga, presents a thought-provoking exploration of Adlerian psychology through a dialogue between a philosopher and a young man, challenging readers to reconsider their perspectives on happiness, relationships, and personal growth.
What's 'The Courage to Be Disliked' About?
"The Courage to Be Disliked" is structured as a series of dialogues between a young man and a philosopher, taking place over five nights. The philosopher, drawing on the teachings of Alfred Adler, challenges the youth's preconceptions about life, happiness, and interpersonal relationships. Through these conversations, the book explores key Adlerian concepts such as the rejection of trauma, the idea that all problems are interpersonal relationship problems, and the importance of community feeling. The young man initially resists the philosopher's ideas but gradually comes to understand and accept them, ultimately learning how to take control of his own happiness and live authentically12. This narrative structure allows readers to journey alongside the youth, grappling with and ultimately embracing Adler's liberating approach to life and happiness.
About The Authors: Who Are Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga?
Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga are the co-authors of the bestselling book "The Courage to Be Disliked." Kishimi, born in 1956 in Kyoto, Japan, is a philosopher, Adlerian psychologist, and translator with a Master's degree in philosophy from Kyoto University12. He has extensive experience teaching philosophy and psychology at various institutions and currently runs a private counseling office in Kyoto1. Koga, though less information is available about him, collaborated with Kishimi to bring Adlerian psychology to a wider audience through their book. Together, they crafted a unique dialogue-style narrative that presents complex psychological concepts in an accessible format, drawing on Alfred Adler's theories to offer readers a new perspective on achieving happiness and personal growth23.
'The Courage to Be Disliked' Reviews (Videos)
What Readers Are Saying About 'The Courage to Be Disliked'
Reader reviews of "The Courage to Be Disliked" reveal a mix of positive and negative reactions to the book's core ideas and presentation style. Here is a summary of the main pros and cons mentioned by readers:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Thought-provoking ideas on personal responsibility | Controversial stance on trauma and past experiences |
| Accessible presentation of Adlerian psychology | Dialogue format can feel awkward or contrived |
| Empowering message about changing one's life | Perceived as victim-blaming by some readers |
| Challenges conventional thinking on happiness | Lack of practical, actionable advice |
| Easy-to-read conversational style | Repetitive content in parts |
Many readers found the book's ideas liberating and appreciated its fresh perspective on achieving happiness12. However, others criticized its dismissal of trauma and felt the dialogue format was artificial34. Despite mixed reviews, the book's popularity suggests it resonates with many seeking a new approach to personal growth and fulfillment.
The Courage to Be Disliked: Awards and Recognition
"The Courage to Be Disliked" has achieved significant recognition and commercial success since its publication. Here is a summary of its notable achievements:
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| International Bestseller | Sold over 10 million copies worldwide 12 |
| TikTok Sensation | Gained popularity on the social media platform 12 |
| Translated Editions | Published in multiple languages and countries |
| Amazon Ratings | Over 11,000 reviews with a 4.4-star rating 3 |
The book's widespread appeal across different cultures and demographics demonstrates its impact on readers globally. Its success on platforms like TikTok indicates its resonance with younger audiences, while its high ratings on Amazon suggest positive reception among a broad readership. The multiple translations further underscore its international reach and influence in the self-help genre.
The Courage to Be Disliked (Photos)
The Courage to Be Disliked
Closing Thoughts on 'The Courage to Be Disliked'
"The Courage to Be Disliked" offers a powerful and thought-provoking approach to living an authentic life and finding personal happiness in our current, often competitive society. Through its conversational format, the book presents a complex theory based on Adlerian psychology, challenging readers to reexamine their beliefs about the meaning of life and what constitutes a meaningful life.12
The book's core message emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's own happiness, rather than succumbing to fear or the expectations of others. By fostering horizontal relationships and developing a feeling of contribution to the community, individuals can overcome chronic feelings of inferiority and lead more fulfilling lives.34
While some readers may find the book's dismissal of past traumas controversial, its overarching philosophy encourages a liberating shift in perspective.4 By focusing on the present moment and the power of personal choice, "The Courage to Be Disliked" distinguishes itself from other self-help books, offering a thought-provoking path to self-acceptance and truth.25
Ultimately, the book's enduring popularity and global impact suggest that its ideas resonate with readers seeking a fresh approach to navigating life's challenges and finding genuine happiness in an often complex world.25
