The World's Best Book Summaries
What is The Alter Ego Effect about? Why is Todd Herman’s vision of an alter ego? In The Alter Ego Effect, Herman presents a systematic approach to performing at your best. By creating, shaping, and implementing an alter ego, you’ll have all the strengths and abilities you need when the heat is on. Read below for a brief overview of The Alter Ego Effect.
What is “homo economicus”? Does the assumption of homo economicus reflect an average economic agent? Economics, once focused on the study of the production of goods and services, has branched into psychology and now purports to explain the motivations and beliefs of the human beings who produce those goods and services. At the heart of the current economic theory is “homo economicus”—the idea that humans are rational beings making optimal economic choices in the light of perfect access to information. Here’s why the homo economicus model is ultimately flawed, according to Kate Raworth.
How does the social environment affect human behavior? Do you behave differently around the higher-ups? Social environment has a tremendous influence on human behavior. People tend to act differently than their normal self around higher-ups and people from out-groups. Also, men tend to take greater risks in the company of women. Keep reading to learn about the psychology of social interaction.
What is a neurotransmitter? What are the key neurotransmitters that shape our behavior and moods? Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers in the brain that pass on signals between the brain’s cells—neurons. Neurotransmitters play a key role in how you feel and act moment to moment. There are dozens of neurotransmitters at work in the human brain, but the most noteworthy ones are dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and testosterone. Let’s take a look at the major brain neurotransmitters and how they drive behavior.
What is an alter ego? Why does Todd Herman recommend creating one? In The Alter Ego Effect, athletic performance coach and leadership advisor Todd Herman reveals the trick that many professional athletes use to bring their A-game when it matters: adopting an alter ego. By doing this, you consciously decide which of your existing talents and skills to use to excel in your life. Keep reading to learn more about alter egos and when you need one.
What are the StrengthsFinder strengths? How are they described? What are your top strengths? In StrengthsFinder 2.0, Tom Rath describes the 34 innate abilities the StrengthsFinder test looks for. He also provides suggestions for capitalizing on your innate ability to achieve your greatest potential. Even if you read this book without taking the test, you’ll learn about the different strengths you might have and how to build upon them to find success. Alongside descriptions of the 34 innate abilities, we provide commentary on further ways to grow your ability, potential downsides to certain abilities, and situations in which everyone should
How do people make moral choices? What is the key factor that determines whether people will do the right thing, ethically speaking? In psychology, morality is a subject that has been studied extensively. One of the key influences on people’s moral decisions seems to be distance—how far or close they are to the situation both physically and emotionally. Keep reading to learn about the psychology of morality.
What’s the key to being your best self? How can you use an alter ego to be more confident and successful? An alter ego is a science-backed tool that lets you adopt the traits, behaviors, and demeanor of a person who excels in a particular realm of your life. In The Alter Ego Effect, Todd Herman gives a step-by-step guide to bringing out your alter ego so you can live to your fullest potential. Continue reading to learn how to be your best self.
Where is your soul on its journey toward enlightenment? How can you further your soul’s evolution? In his book The Seat of the Soul, Gary Zukav argues that the purpose of the soul is to evolve. This isn’t always easy, and he offers ideas on how to encourage the soul’s journey toward its goal of enlightenment. He explains how to develop your heart knowledge and seek authentic power. He also discusses how spiritual psychology could help all of us in this evolution. Keep reading for Zukav’s insights on the soul’s journey.
Does free will exist? Do you believe that your behavior is the manifestation of fate or free will? Most people believe their behavior and decisions stem from their conscious choice. The idea of free will is an attractive one, but some scientists maintain that it is an illusion. Here’s why free does not exist, according to Behave author Robert Sapolsky.