Sincerity : How a moral ideal born five hundred years ago inspired religious wars, modern art, hipster chic, and the curious notion that we all have something to say (no matter how dull) Alice Walker Barrett's study ranges over the

Barrett's study ranges over the entire scope of anthropological theory

and politics to create a portrait of an ideal that

the very moment of India’s independence

wasn't about dying

Winner of the UK’s Willesden Herald Prize for best short fiction

Sincerity : How a moral ideal born five hundred years ago inspired religious wars, modern art, hipster chic, and the curious notion that we all have something to say (no matter how dull) Alice Walker Barrett's study ranges over thePeople have long been duped by "straight talking" politicians, confessional talk show hosts, and fake earnest advertisers. As sincerity has become suspect, the upright and honest have taken refuge in irony. Yet our struggle for authenticity in back to the woods movements, folksy songwriting, and a craving for plainspoken presidential candidatesbetrays our longing for the holy grail of sincerity. Bringing deep historical perspective and a brilliant