Elizabeth Whitworth, Author at Shortform Books

The Limitations of Logic: How It Fails to Decode Human Behavior

A Logic Limit Ahead road sign in front of mountains

In what disciplines does logic come up short? When does unreason triumph over logic? To be clear, Rory Sutherland doesn’t attack logic as a tool for scientific understanding, but he warns against using pure rationalism as the only method for guiding policy and business decisions. Humans are illogical beings, so any solution to human-centered problems must factor unreason into the equation. Continue reading to understand the limitations of logic.

Prefrontal Cortex Dysfunction Symptoms & Remedies (Dr. Amen)

An orchestra playing in a concert hall with lights shining on them.

Would you like to be more organized? Are you easily distracted? How can listening to Mozart help? Your prefrontal cortex oversees your executive function. If it’s not hitting on all cylinders, you could experience difficulty with focus, directions, emotions, learning, managing daily life, and more. Dr. Daniel G. Amen discusses ways to identify and address prefrontal cortex dysfunction. Read more to learn about the symptoms of—and treatments for—prefrontal cortex dysfunction.

How to Use Psycho-Logic: 3 Ways to Tap Into the Magic of Unreason

What’s psycho-logic? How can you use it to persuade people to do something or buy something? It’s essential to acknowledge and tap into the instinctive, unconscious reasoning behind how people make decisions. Whether you’re selling a product, planning a business strategy, or trying to convince people to eat healthful food, the “magic” of unreason can be far more persuasive than logical arguments and facts. Keep reading to learn what Rory Sutherland has to say about the value of psycho-logic and how to use it.

What Does the Prefrontal Cortex Do in the Brain? (Dr. Amen)

What does the prefrontal cortex do in the brain? How is it connected to your emotions and behaviors? One of the regions of your brain is your prefrontal cortex. Psychiatrist and brain health expert Daniel G. Amen explains its vital functions in his book Change Your Brain, Change Your Life. Continue reading to learn what the prefrontal cortex does in the brain.

Rory Sutherland Quotes From Alchemy (+ Context)

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What’s the problem with logic? What do people value more than things? Why should businesses ignore what their customers say? In Alchemy, Rory Sutherland suggests that, to solve economic and political problems, we should leverage people’s illogical—and even magical—ways of thinking. If business and political leaders can better understand the human psyche, they can use it to tackle the issues of the modern world. Read more for several Rory Sutherland quotes from Alchemy that will give you a good sense of the book.

What Does the Anterior Cingulate Gyrus Do? Dr. Amen Explains

A person thinking with colors around them

What does the anterior cingulate gyrus do? What does it have to do with decision-making and conflict resolution? Most people have never heard of the anterior cingulate gyrus, but they use it all the time. This part of your brain helps you think more effectively. Dr. Daniel G. Amen explains its role in his book Change Your Brain, Change Your Life. Keep reading to learn what the anterior cingulate gyrus does in your everyday life.

How to Persuade Others With Unconscious Logic

Would you like to influence people more effectively? Have you found that reason and facts don’t always do the job? According to Rory Sutherland, we should harness unconscious logic if we want to persuade people and influence their behavior. His insights and advice are valuable for business leaders, marketers, policymakers, parents, and anyone who seeks to influence others. Keep reading to understand the power of unconscious logic and learn how to persuade others by tapping into it.

How to Get Unstuck: Dr. Amen’s Fixes for Negative Patterns

Do you get stuck in negative thought patterns? Do you have compulsive behaviors you’d like to break free from? Psychiatrist and brain health expert Daniel G. Amen believes that you can change your life if you change your brain. He matches health and psychological problems with brain dysfunctions and offers solutions. He links being stuck in negative thoughts and behaviors with anterior cingulate gyrus dysfunction. Continue reading to learn how to get unstuck by addressing this part of your brain.

What Are the Functions of the Temporal Lobes? Dr. Amen Explains

A human brain glowing in a person's head.

What are the functions of the temporal lobes? Why are they so important? Your brain is a remarkable organ. Various regions work together to allow you to function from moment to moment. The temporal lobes contribute to this overall function in the areas of language comprehension and memory recall. Read more to learn about the functions of the temporal lobes, as described by psychiatrist and brain health expert Daniel G. Amen.

Temporal Lobe Dysfunction Symptoms & Repairs (Dr. Amen)

A confused man with a messy desk in the background.

Do you sometimes have trouble recognizing people or finding words? Are you hypersensitive? Why should you hum (even when you know the words)? In his book Change Your Brain, Change Your Life, brain health expert Dr. Daniel G. Amen discusses cognitive and psychological symptoms and links them to dysfunctions in various parts of the brain. One of these is temporal lobe dysfunction, and he lays out several symptoms and remedies. Continue reading to learn some of the signs of temporal lobe dysfunction and ways to optimize your health in this area.