Susan Cain writes an article titled “Shyness: An Evolutionary Tactic” (or the more tentative version of the title “Is Shyness an Evolutionary Tactic?”) in a recent edition of the New York Times.
Shyness is here a synonym for introversion, which is examined as a means of observation and assessment by “sitters” versus the extrovert (“rovers”) curiosity and attraction to novelty that often ends in a rush into danger. Mentions introversion as a tool for creativity, contemplation, workplace stability, and psychological well-being. Important point, too, is the medical and pharmaceutical industry’s attempts to make introversion a disease in need of a drug.
The author has a blog titled “Quiet: The Power of Introverts” and a forthcoming book with the same title.
URLs: article – http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/26/opinion/sunday/26shyness.html
blog – http://www.thepowerofintroverts.com