Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers' Favorite

Does it serve us to be good? Prasanth Kumar Vinakota believes that it does not, and outlines his reasoning in Why Good People Are Actually Dangerous: The Hidden Cost of Moral Certainty. We have been programmed to aspire to be “good”, but this can have unintended consequences. The author examines what being good involves and whether our actions that flow from it are justified. Our desire to attain the moral high ground can influence our perspectives, particularly when those are ego-driven. The author maintains that goodness is a human social construct. It is influenced by religion, family, society, culture, and politics. It also masks an underlying need for acceptance. Pertinent questions arise, such as whether goodness is a mask or even a weapon, or if goodness automatically brings happiness. The book explores instances where good did not serve. There can be many interpretations arising from a single event, but the context is essential in reaching an understanding. The story unfolds through the eyes of Saira, a young woman who was robbed on a suburban train. What follows has many lessons, as Saira searches for the truth about the accused thief.

Prasanth Kumar Vinakota observes that our striving for what is good can be a factor of the intention that lies behind our actions. Our internal programming is driven by fear, ego, moral factors, judgment, and insecurity, among other triggers. There are expectations of outcome, and a sense of entitlement. The book seeks to lay bare the thought process behind the programming. It questions the shaky foundations on which morals are based. It explores what constitutes truth and what is just a perspective. The teachings of Krishna, Jesus, Buddha, and Muhammad are examined in the light of their selective interpretation, as well as distortions by social media. The writing style is concise and is deeply philosophical. The theme is presented through an extraordinary account of a young woman whose world is unexpectedly changed. The author seeks both truth and clarity. It may not be a comfortable read for all, and the author acknowledges that some readers may disagree with his opinions. Why Good People Are Actually Dangerous is an invitation to look within and evaluate our beliefs and the way in which we measure ourselves. It is a thought-provoking read written from a unique perspective that will inspire debate.