Materia Book Club and “The Molecule of More”

We had a wonderful time at the second Materia Book Club meeting. The book we read and talked about was “The Molecule Of More” by authors Daniel Z. Lieberman and Michael E. Long. This is also the current bestseller of the publishing house Planetopija - our dear partner in this project. This provocative book takes readers through the intricacies of desire and dopamine, unraveling the science behind our pursuit of happiness.

"The Molecule Of More" explores the role of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, in shaping human behavior. The book argues that the pursuit of more—more success, more pleasure, more experience—is deeply rooted in the brain's craving for dopamine. The authors explore the science behind desire, linking it to the release of dopamine in the brain. Our discussion focused on how this neurotransmitter affects decision-making, motivation, and our pursuit of personal and professional goals. Each member shared their personal experiences and told how the concepts presented in the book are related to their lives. We also discussed the impact of dopamine on our career choices, personal and business relationships, and general sense of fulfillment.

We discussed how cultural expectations and social norms influence our pursuit of success and happiness, often leading to a perpetual cycle of wanting more. The book inspired a story about finding a balance between striving for more and being content. We thought about the idea of conscious consumption, recognizing the importance of enjoying the 'journey' and not just focusing on the destination. Our book clubers shared their thoughts on how insights from the book can be applied in real life, such as strategies for managing dopamine-driven cravings, setting realistic goals, practicing gratitude, and cultivating self-awareness. The book served not only as a source of scientific knowledge but also as a catalyst for personal growth and thinking. In addition to the book, we touched on many other life topics.
"The Molecule Of More" is an inspiring book that encourages growth and personal development. It can be found at Planetopija book shop (Ilica 68, Zagreb) or in the webshop.