The World's Best Book Summaries
What is germline editing? What are the ethical implications of using germline cells for gene therapy? Germline editing is a method of modifying one’s genome in such a way that the changes are passed down to all the subsequent generations. Currently, germline editing is illegal because of ethical concerns. Keep reading to learn about the implications of germline editing.
Do you find it difficult to resist distractions and get your mind to focus on the task at hand? What is the secret to sustained focus? When your mind is scattered, getting it to focus might seem like a tall order. According to Neil Fiore, the author of The Now Habit, the first step to getting into the zone of sustained focus is to get into a flow state. Here are three tips to stay focused and keep distractions at bay.
How long have we been studying genetics? What were the most significant events in the history of the field? The word “gene” was coined by Danish botanist Wilhelm Johannsen in 1909. However, crucial strides in the field of genetics had been made before that term even existed. Keep reading to learn about the scientists that laid the groundwork for the study of genetics.
How do we make decisions? Have you ever made a decision that felt right at the time, but that caused you deep regret down the road? When making decisions, we usually commit to one choice and hope for the best. These steps aren’t a problem in themselves. The problem is that we passively follow the chosen path, even if there are clear signs it’s leading us astray. Here’s how to make the right decision you’ll never regret.
Why is death such a taboo topic? How does talking about dying help us make peace with our mortality? According to Atul Gawande, we can greatly improve our experience of mortality by talking about death more openly. We tend to avoid these conversations, but that leaves us ill-prepared to deal with the challenges aging and dying present. Here’s why we shouldn’t shy away from talking about death, according to Atul Gawande.
Can gene therapy cure any disease? How far are we from a future where gene therapy is mainstream? Scientists have already begun to explore the possibilities of gene manipulation with new technologies like stem cell research. However, progress is slow due to ethical and legal concerns, especially when it comes to modifying human genes. Keep reading to learn about the future of gene therapy.
Do you find it difficult to get yourself to sit down and do your work? Do you tend to put off work until the last minute and then end up scrambling? According to Neil Fiore, the author of The Now Habit, avoiding work is a symptom of anxiety rather than laziness or lack of motivation. Therefore, discipline is not an enduring solution. To address the problem, you have to tackle the underlying psychological reasons that make you dread work. Here’s why you’re avoiding work and just can’t get things done.
Is a big decision on the horizon for you? What are some things you should consider when making important decisions in life? Your decisions chart the trajectory of your life. When faced with a big decision, it’s important to push yourself beyond the current situation and consider how you’ll feel about your decision at various points in the future. Here’s how to make high-stakes decisions, according to Chip and Dan Heath.
Who first formulated eugenics? How did Galton’s ideas inspire the Holocaust? Francis Galton coined the term “eugenics” in 1883. Put simply, eugenics meant strategic breeding with the goal of producing a superior human race by weeding out undesirable traits. Galton’s ideas were deeply immoral from the start, but they didn’t reach their terrifying conclusion decades later when Hitler came to power. Here’s how Francis Galton’s eugenics has led to the extermination of 11 million people.
What is the problem with the modern approach to end-of-life care? What are some ways we can help ease the passing of the dying? According to Atul Gawande, the author of Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End, our modern approach to aging and dying harms our well-being. He suggests some specific ways we can help the dying meet their ends with peace, dignity, and composure. In this article, we’ll examine the key takeaways from Gawande’s Being Mortal.