Adam Alter Discusses New Book, "Irresistible", with Author and Journalist Malcolm Gladwell

Professor Elizabeth Morrison, Vice Dean of Faculty, welcomed Professor Adam Alter and esteemed author and journalist Malcolm Gladwell, to a packed Paulson Auditorium for a conversation on Professor Alter’s latest book, Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping Us Hooked. Nearly 400 alumni, students, and faculty set aside their phones to learn about the complexities of addiction and how it manifests in the modern age.

Professor Alter and Gladwell compared the addictive characteristics of cigarettes and technology and discussed the distinction between addiction and distractibility. They spoke about the lack of built-in "stopping rules" in today’s digital age, thanks to bottomless newsfeeds and next episode auto-plays, and put forth ideas for setting up one's own limitations.

Stern students and alumni prompted further consideration with their questions, and continued the conversation at the cocktail reception and book signing following the talk.

Watch the conversation on Facebook Live:


View photos from the event:


Media Coverage for Irresistible
Related Articles & Videos