What is personality? How do we measure it? This unique text presents the most current scientific findings about personality in a friendly, jargon-free format. It addresses historical views of personality and compares the reigning Five Factor Model with the most current competing models of personality. The authors discuss techniques of assessing personality and provide information on its role in life outcomes ranging from career choice to interpersonal relationships. The text also addresses controversies and moral implications pertaining to the application of personality assessment in social, organizational, and business contexts. It offers a comprehensive account of the consequences of personality on people's lives in such areas as religious and political attitudes and implications for health.