The World's Best Book Summaries
How has technology changed the way we work? Why are careers ending because of technology? Today, job stability is all but gone and all careers are now like startups. According to Reid Hoffman and Ben Casnocha’s book The Startup of You, technology and globalization have turned the work world from one defined by stability to one defined by constant flux. Keep reading to learn more about technology and globalization’s impact on the work world.
Is there a cultural revolution going on in the West? If so, when and how did it start? What does our sense of self have to do with it? In The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self, Carl Trueman argues that cultural developments of the past three centuries have transformed our conception of selfhood. It’s changed from a self rooted in religion, tradition, and community to one rooted in individualism, emotion, and sexuality. Continue reading for an overview of this thought-provoking book.
What’s the future of civilization? How will society be structured? James Davidson and William Rees-Mogg contend that, as nation-states decline in the 21st century, millions of micro-sovereignties will rise to take their place. These could be city-states or even individual estates where a wealthy person gets to decide what laws apply to her own property. Keep reading to learn Davidson and Rees-Mogg’s predictions for the future of civilization and the road they believe we’ll take to get there.
What advantages do small businesses and individuals have over large companies? What’s the future of warfare? How might virtual assistants be weaponized? In The Sovereign Individual, James Davidson and William Rees-Mogg explain how technology impacts society. Writing in the 1990s, they contend that circumstances and technological developments have always shaped society and will continue to do so. Read more to learn about the ways technology influences civilization, including some of Davidson and Rees-Mogg’s predictions for the 21st century.
What’s the fastest way to reduce carbon emissions from energy use? Which causes more deaths—fossil fuels or nuclear power? Vaclav Smil argues that we need to reduce energy use in all areas—transportation, buildings, agriculture, and industry—in order to cut down on carbon emissions. Two primary ways to do so are by generating electricity from renewable sources and by using nuclear energy. Keep reading to understand Smil’s ideas on how to reduce carbon emissions in energy use and manufacturing.
Is the IRS $80 billion funding plan a good or bad idea? Who will the overhaul help or hurt? In a bid to revitalize its operations and tackle long-standing challenges, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recently announced a bold $80 billion, 10-year strategic plan for an extensive overhaul. The plan aims to address issues stemming from years of underfunding, staff shortages, and outdated technology. Read on to learn experts’ varied viewpoints on the pros and cons of the IRS $80 billion overhaul.
What’s behind the pet store ban on animal sales? Why are some people for or against the bans? A growing number of US cities, counties, and states are banning pet store sales of dogs, cats, and other animals to combat puppy mills and animal maltreatment. Advocates believe these bans are vital for reducing abuse, but puppy mill owners are finding loopholes to circumvent the restrictions. Read on to learn more about the drive to ban the retail sale of animals in pet stores.
How does the changing climate impact our water supply? The air we breathe? The food we eat? In How the World Really Works, Vaclav Smil helps us understand how climate change affects the environment, particularly the aspects of the environment that are required for humans to live. He believes that we’ll be in good shape as long as we take certain measures. Continue reading to learn how climate change affects oxygen, water, and food.
How accurate are climate predictions? How likely are we to meet our global climate goals? Vaclav Smil claims that it’s difficult, if not impossible, to make accurate predictions about global warming. That’s true even for those with extensive experience and knowledge on the topic. It’s also difficult, if not impossible, to meet current IPCC limits on warming. Read more to learn why global climate goals are so difficult to reach.
Why has book banning in the US spiked as of late? Are there specific themes being targeted? The US has seen a record number of books banned in public schools and libraries this year. Although book banning isn’t new, many question whether or not it’s constitutional. Below, we’ll discuss what themes are being targeted for censorship, whether it’s constitutional, and what kinds of pushback are happening.