Elizabeth Whitworth, Author at Shortform Books

How to Improve Observation Skills: 3 Ways to See More

Do subtle things escape your notice? What are you missing that you really should know about? When you see what others don’t, you immediately have an advantage. The Innovator’s DNA identifies observation as one of the five Discovery Skills shared by the most disruptive innovators. The authors discuss the importance of observation skills and share tips to sharpen them. Continue reading to learn how to improve observation skills in business or any endeavor.

What’s the Impact of Agriculture on the Environment?

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.

Language Processing in the Brain: How We Know What We Hear

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.

Dispelling 3 Misconceptions About Climate Change

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.

How to Have a Successful Marriage: 3 Areas to Improve On

What role does blame play in a marriage? How can you get through the tough times? When should you “recommit”? David Brooks argues that you should embrace relationalism—the worldview that prioritizes selflessness and service to others—to lead a deeply fulfilling life. That includes enjoying a satisfying marriage. In The Second Mountain, he offers recommendations for how to have a successful marriage. Read on to learn how to keep a marriage commitment strong, based on the relationalist approach to life.

Idea Networking: How Disruptive Innovators Mingle

What’s idea networking? How is it different from traditional professional networking? Disruptive innovators don’t just network; they network for ideas. Idea networking is one of the five Discovery Skills that the authors discuss in The Innovator’s DNA. They explain what it is, and they outline three ways you can cultivate this effective practice. Keep reading to learn how to mingle like the world’s best innovators.

What Are the Effects of Urbanization on the Environment?

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? Steven Pinker Explains

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.

Who’s Not Telling the Whole Truth About Climate Change?

Whom can we trust to report climate science accurately? Why would anyone twist the facts? Steven E. Koonin argues that climate science is frequently misconstrued, and he attempts to diagnose the root of this problem. He accuses various parties of distorting climate science and explains some of the biases and motivations that appear to be behind the misrepresentations. Continue reading to learn who’s not telling the whole truth about climate change—and why.

Oversubscribed by Daniel Priestley: Book Overview & Takeaways

What does “demand breeds demand” mean? What’s more effective than mass marketing? When should you bring your product to market? Oversubscribed by Daniel Priestley starts with an unusual premise: Get more people interested in your product or service than you could possibly serve, and don’t start selling it until that happens. He discusses why and how to do this and explains how to run a successful marketing campaign. Continue reading for an overview of this practical book that can get you on the path to solid sales.