The World's Best Book Summaries
How do humans talk? What’s the infinite combinatorial system? What body parts do we use when we speak? In The Language Instinct, experimental psychologist Steven Pinker explains the basics of human language. He discusses the ingenious infinite combinatorial system as well as the physical mechanics of speaking. Keep reading to learn how humans talk.
Could lab-grown organs solve the transplant crisis? What are the main challenges involved in growing organs for transplants? The demand for organs far outstrips the available supply. As a result, thousands of people die every year because their organs failed before they reached their turn on the waiting list. However, this may soon be over as scientists are making strides in their ability to grow organs and transplant them with little chance of rejection. Keep reading to learn about the exciting advances in transplant organ growth.
What was Earth like before humans? In what environment did the human race emerge? In The World Without Us, science journalist Alan Weisman asks what would happen if the human race vanished overnight. In an effort to figure that out, he begins by understanding what the primeval world was like long before the advent of human civilization. Continue reading to learn about the Earth before humans.
Is farming good or bad for the land? How has agriculture changed the world’s landscape? The human race has left a mark on our planet. In The World Without Us, science journalist Alan Weisman investigates that mark, including the impact of agriculture on the environment. He takes a historical look back and a speculative look forward to see what would happen if human activities ceased. Read more to learn how farming impacts the Earth.
When you listen to someone, how does your brain find meaning in what they’re saying? How does your memory play a role? In The Language Instinct, experimental psychologist Steven Pinker explores many facets of human language. This includes language processing in the brain, which is quite a remarkable undertaking. Continue reading to learn how our brains process speech.
Is the weather more extreme these days? Why are sea levels rising? Are we headed for a climate apocalypse? Former energy industry scientist Steven E. Koonin contends that climate activists have misled the public into thinking there’s proof that our actions have led to global warming and possible climate catastrophe. On the contrary, Koonin argues that the facts about climate change are far from certain. Keep reading to learn how Koonin dispels three significant misconceptions about climate change.
Can stem cells reverse aging? How do stem cells repair aged tissue? What are the main challenges in using stem cells for anti-aging? Stem cells are a promising solution for reversing the aging process. Injecting stem cells can induce healing of the tissues damaged in the process of aging and restore overall cellular function. Keep reading to learn about stem cell therapy for anti-aging.
What is the placebo effect in psychology? What role does the mind play in healing the body? Placebo is the beneficial effect experienced by a patient who has received a fake treatment but believes they’ve received real treatment. The placebo effect is proof that your beliefs can influence your physical health, conferring healing or inflicting sickness. Here is how you can harness the power of placebo to heal your body.
What are the effects of urbanization on the environment? How are animals impacted? Is the greenery in cities natural and beneficial? In The World Without Us, science journalist Alan Weisman aims to address humanity’s environmental impact by imagining a world in which nature is allowed to flourish. He takes a close look at how cities impact the natural world. Read more to learn what Weisman discovered about urbanization’s mark on the planet.
How does language work? What are the smallest meaningful language units? How does the brain interpret speech? In The Language Instinct, Steven Pinker aims to inspire readers to appreciate the unique qualities of human language. He explains how language works by describing the infinite combinatorial system, the mechanics of speech, and the brain processes involved in making sense of speech. Keep reading to learn how language works.