Book Con opened Saturday, May 30 at Javits Convention Center in New York City and Parks and Recreation’s Aziz Ansari was present to hold a conversation about his book, which he co-authored with Eric Klineberg called releasing June 16, 2015 from Penguin Press. His discussion was moderated by Daniel Jones, editor of New York Times column, Modern Love. Joining the two for the latter half of the discussion was co-author of Modern Romance, Eric Klineberg who makes his living as a professional socialist.
Using his own dating experience to seed the the writing of Modern Romance, he unfolds a story of Tanya, a woman who never responded to his text messages, which confused him and led him to want to understand why and the situation overall. Ansari then talked about using science and finding scientific explanation for feelings and how there are ways to explain, through science the confusing world of dating in the modern world.
Ansari was asked about marriage, having grown up where his parents were the product of “arranged marriage” and discussed his own relationship status, revealing that he has no plans to marry anytime soon.
Ansari read an excerpt from his book, entertaining the audience with his wit evidenced in the humorous voice of the book.
Klineberg, a socialist, gained personal data direct from Ansari, which allowed for further study in modern dating and romance and gave Ansari an approach for writing the book. The panel demonstrated the crossing of comedy with science, talking of how stories from various focus groups around the globe as well as stories from Ansari’s own experiences, combined with both academic perspective helped the book become a reality.
The audience asked questions then the session was closed by Ansari who shared another anecdote of his own relationship. The audience came away understanding the importance of connecting as people, yet understanding we connect using technology and how it can make for a stronger relationship.