Shortform Books

The Genetics of Race: Is There a Biological Basis?

Is there any biological basis for the existence of race? How much genetic variation is there between different races? Race is a social construct rather than a biological reality: There is very little basis for differentiating between races in genetics. Genetically speaking, humans are incredibly similar, sharing approximately 99.9% of their genetic code, regardless of race. Learn about the genetics of race and why it doesn’t exist in a biological sense.

The Problem With Modern Palliative Care Approaches

What is the problem with the modern approach to end-of-life care? Why do modern end-of-life care institutions fail to deliver what’s expected of them? The modern approach to end-of-life care relies on hospice and medical organizations. However, most end-of-life care institutions fail to provide patients with adequate autonomy and a sense of belonging. Here’s why modern palliative care approaches are at odds with the things that add value at the end of life.

The Foundation of Trust: How Empathy Sustains Relationships

What is the foundation of trust? What sustains relationships over time? Empathy is the central theme of Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella’s business philosophy. He defines empathy as the cornerstone of all that he does. Nadella promotes empathy as the foundation of trust, which sustains both personal and professional relationships over time. Continue reading to learn about the connection between empathy and trust.

Germline Editing: Legal Status and Ethical Implications

What is germline editing? What are the ethical implications of using germline cells for gene therapy? Germline editing is a method of modifying one’s genome in such a way that the changes are passed down to all the subsequent generations. Currently, germline editing is illegal because of ethical concerns. Keep reading to learn about the implications of germline editing.

The Great Mental Models Volume 1: General Thinking Concepts

What’s Occam’s Razor, and how can it help you solve problems in life? What should you do if you’re not operating in your “region of mastery”? The Great Mental Models Volume 1: General Thinking Concepts presents a foundational set of nine mental models. According to authors Shane Parrish and Rhiannon Beaubien, these models are timeless thinking tools from a variety of fields. Keep reading to learn how these models can equip you to make better decisions, avoid consequential mistakes, and succeed in life and work.

Is Pandemic Unemployment the New Normal?

What is the current state of pandemic unemployment? How did expiring pandemic benefits affect the worker shortage? According to analysts, long-term changes brought about by the pandemic—including early retirements by millions and a changed attitude toward work—won’t likely reverse once the virus is totally under control. As society copes with the lasting impact of the pandemic, the labor shortage continues to be an issue in the workforce. Keep reading for an overview of why pandemic unemployment might be here to stay.

3 Tips to Stay Focused and Keep Distractions at Bay

Do you find it difficult to resist distractions and get your mind to focus on the task at hand? What is the secret to sustained focus? When your mind is scattered, getting it to focus might seem like a tall order. According to Neil Fiore, the author of The Now Habit, the first step to getting into the zone of sustained focus is to get into a flow state. Here are three tips to stay focused and keep distractions at bay.

Siddhartha Mukherjee: Tracing the History of Genetics

How long have we been studying genetics? What were the most significant events in the history of the field? The word “gene” was coined by Danish botanist Wilhelm Johannsen in 1909. However, crucial strides in the field of genetics had been made before that term even existed. Keep reading to learn about the scientists that laid the groundwork for the study of genetics.

How to Make the Right Decision You’ll Never Regret

How do we make decisions? Have you ever made a decision that felt right at the time, but that caused you deep regret down the road? When making decisions, we usually commit to one choice and hope for the best. These steps aren’t a problem in themselves. The problem is that we passively follow the chosen path, even if there are clear signs it’s leading us astray. Here’s how to make the right decision you’ll never regret.

How to Study for STEM Courses & Exams

Are you a STEM student? How should you study for STEM courses? Studying for STEM courses is much different than humanities courses. In How to Become a Straight-A Student, Cal Newport explains how you should go about preparing for your STEM tests. Here’s how to ace your STEM tests so you can pass the class.