Elizabeth Whitworth, Author at Shortform Books

17 Brené Brown Empathy Quotes (+ Context & Explanation)

What’s the difference between empathy and sympathy? How can we use empathy as a weapon to combat shame in ourselves and others? Researcher and author Brené Brown studies and writes quite a bit about empathy. We’ve collected excerpts from several of her books to give you a quick but comprehensive look at what she says about the meaning and nature of empathy, the connection between empathy and shame, and empathy as a practice and skill. Continue reading for 17 Brené Brown empathy quotes that will give you a glimpse into her insights.

Steven Pinker & Carl Sagan on the Importance of Rationality

What does it mean to think and behave rationally? What difference does rationality make? In his book Rationality, Steven Pinker argues that rationality and reason are essential. But, people often misunderstand them and end up acting irrationally even when they think they’re not. Carl Sagan would likely agree with Pinker, although he would come at it from a different angle and context. Keep reading to learn about the importance of rationality, according to Pinker and Sagan.

What Is Rational Choice Theory? Steven Pinker Explains

How do you choose between options? What is rational choice theory, and what does it have to do with the way you make decisions? Rationality by Steven Pinker is both a call to action and a how-to manual for thinking and acting more rationally. Pinker explains that economists, philosophers, and others have defined rationality using rational choice theory. Continue reading to learn what this theory is and how it applies to your everyday life.

ADHD and Socializing: 3 Tips for Fostering Connections

Why are social connections especially important for people with ADHD? What are some practical things that people can do to enjoy more connection? Psychiatrist Edward Hallowell and professor of psychiatry John Ratey say that people with ADHD have a deep-seated need for interpersonal connection—in other words, for love. They recommend that people with ADHD nurture close friendships, socialize with acquaintances, and perhaps get a pet for companionship. Continue reading to learn about ADHD and socializing.

Nancy Kline’s Time to Think: Listening to Ignite the Human Mind

Do certain people help you think through things more thoroughly and accurately? Do you feel more creative and productive in particular environments? Nancy Kline’s Time to Think: Listening to Ignite the Human Mind explains that what and how we think determines everything we do and say. Kline argues that, when people listen to us well, they help us think more effectively. Continue reading for an overview of this book that takes a novel approach to both thinking and listening.

What Is a Formal Fallacy? The Anatomy of a Faulty Conclusion

What is a formal fallacy? How often do you perpetrate them? Can you detect them in the arguments of other people? According to psychologist Steven Pinker, one of the main reasons people think irrationally is that they use logic and critical thinking incorrectly. They engage in fallacious arguments that lead to irrational conclusions. Formal fallacies are one common type of fallacy that people commit. Read more to learn about a couple of common formal fallacies and the psychological bias that’s behind them.

3 ADHD Lifestyle Changes That Can Help You Flourish

What’s the best way to introduce more structure into your life? What physical activities help relieve psychological symptoms? Psychiatrists Edward Hallowell and John Ratey have good news: People with ADHD can adjust their lifestyles to minimize the downsides of ADHD and harness their own natural strengths. The authors recommend establishing structure, prioritizing health, and taking medication to relieve negative symptoms. Keep reading to learn about three ADHD lifestyle changes that can contribute to a fulfilling life.

What Are Incisive Questions, and Why Should You Ask Them?

How can you help someone overcome an assumption that limits their thought and action? What role does your silence play in the process? Nancy Kline asserts that the key to evoking high-quality thinking in others is to listen to them well. She provides a step-by-step process for conducting a productive conversation, or a thinking session, which maximizes the quality of both listening and thinking. Let’s take a close look at Step 4 in the process: Ask an incisive question.

How to Thrive With ADHD: Leverage Your Natural Interests

What are you really good at? What do you enjoy so much that it can make you lose track of time? If you have ADHD, you can achieve incredible things when you take on challenges that align with your strengths and passions. Edward Hallowell and John Ratey explain how and why this works in their encouraging book ADHD 2.0. Keep reading to learn how to thrive with ADHD by leveraging your natural interests.

Formal and Informal Fallacies: Steven Pinker on Critical Thinking

How well do you know the basic rules of logic? How often do you break them? Can you tell when others use flawed thinking? Steven Pinker argues that people often act irrationally even when they think they’re not. He examines how you can be more rational and make better decisions by improving your critical thinking skills and by understanding—and thus avoiding—the logical fallacies that people often fall victim to. Continue reading for Pinker’s explanation of formal and informal fallacies.