The World's Best Book Summaries
What is association bias? Why does association bias occur? Association fallacy (or association bias) is the brain’s tendency to make connections where none exist. This phenomenon is a defense mechanism: making associations allows you to evaluate risk when making decisions. Keep reading to learn about association fallacy, why it occurs, and how to overcome it.
What are cognitive errors? Why does the brain make these errors, and how can you override them? Humans have evolved to pay attention to the most memorable or flashy information that comes up, rather than the most pertinent or helpful. The more conspicuous and repeated a piece of information is, the more you’ll believe it. Although it saves the brain’s resources (it takes less time and energy to accept the flashiest information), it results in cognitive errors—faulty ways of thinking that are often inaccurate and/or irrational. Here are some of the most common cognitive errors that result from the brain’s
What exactly are habits? How are habits formed and why are they so difficult to break? In his book The Power of Habit, Charles Duhigg explains why and how the brain creates habits in order to save mental energy. He details every step of habit formation, from the first time you consciously choose to take any action to how to rewire your brain to replace bad habits. Keep reading to learn how habits are formed in the brain and why they are so difficult to break.
Can practice override talent? What does science have to say on the practice vs. talent conundrum? According to David Epstein, the author of The Sports Gene, there is a disproportionate emphasis on practice as the defining variable in success. However, findings from research studies support a more well-rounded view of the power of practice. For some, practice provides the medium for innate (genetic) ability to flourish. Given the same amount of practice, others may have a more difficult time learning a particular skill. Let’s look at evidence that Epstein has collected from sports and beyond that suggests each of us
Can practice override innate ability? What role does practice play in sports performance? While practice alone cannot determine outcomes in sports (there’s also a strong genetic component), its importance cannot be underestimated. Practice builds sport-specific wisdom, allows you to react quickly, and makes you “unconsciously competent.” Keep reading to learn about the importance of practice in sports success.
What is the 10,000-hour rule? Is it true that a lot of practice can override talent? The phrase the 10,000-hour rule has become a popular way to express the idea that enough practice is a virtual guarantee of expertise. It epitomizes the idea that practice (nurture) can overcome innate ability (nature). Here’s what the science has to say on the matter.
Is there such a thing as natural athleticism? What is more important when it comes to sports performance—practice or innate ability? Different sports place different demands on the human body. Sprinters need to be fast. Soccer players need to be coordinated. Most people’s mental model of a female gymnast would be of someone small in stature, while our mental model of a basketball player is likely tall. We can train our bodies to be the best they can be at a sport, but no amount of training can override natural athleticism. Keep reading to learn about natural athleticism and where
What role does genetics play in sports performance? Are there specific “sports genes” that confer an advantage in sports? Our anatomy and physiology are functions of our genes. While we may know that traits are encoded for in our DNA, finding the exact genes that produce these characteristics remains elusive. However, science has made great strides in finding specific genes that impact sports performance. Keep reading to learn about sports genetics and how genes determine people’s sports performance via response to training.
Is there such a thing as a “sports gene”? What are some examples of genes that contribute to athletic ability? There’s no single gene that can account for an athlete’s success. According to David Epstein, the author of The Sports Gene, at our current level of understanding, investigating the effects of a single gene can tell us more about why someone is not an elite athlete than about why they are. While there’s no single sports gene, science has unraveled several genes that contribute to athletic ability. Let’s look at a few examples.
What is the best body type for gymnastics? Why is being small an advantage? In a sport where athletes are often airborne and rotating, the laws of physics make being small in stature an advantage. Gymnasts also tend to have narrow hips, which is why gymnasts tend to be much younger than other Olympic athletes. Keep reading to learn about the science behind the gymnastics body type.