Elizabeth Whitworth

Senior SEO Writer

Elizabeth has a lifelong love of books. She devours nonfiction, especially in the areas of history, theology, and philosophy. A switch to audiobooks has kindled her enjoyment of well-narrated fiction, particularly Victorian and early 20th-century works. She appreciates idea-driven books—and a classic murder mystery now and then. Elizabeth has a Substack and is writing a book about what the Bible says about death and hell.

Expertise

History, Theology, Government

Awards

Contributions to joint task force efforts (FBI), Contributions to Special Operations Division (DOJ & DEA), Efforts to fight the war on drugs (NSA), Contributions to Operation Storm Front (US Customs Service)

3 Benefits of Doing What You Love: Life in the Genius Zone

Does your mind tend to get stuck in negative places? Do you feel like you’re not really able to be yourself and thrive in your own way? Gay Hendricks uses the term “Genius Zone” to refer to the mind-body space that you enter when two conditions are met: You’re doing what you love to do, and you’re using your skills to make a positive impact in the world. This, he says, is where you should devote your time and attention. Continue reading to learn the three benefits of doing what you love and making a difference in the process.

Charles Darwin’s Tree of Life: Evidence of Common Ancestry

Are all species related to each other way back? Do we have a common ancestor? In On the Origin of Species, Charles Darwin argues that modern species are related through shared ancestry. He provides two pieces of evidence for this theory: the similarity of traits between related organisms and the breeding characteristics of hybrids. Let’s take a look at the evidence for Charles Darwin’s “tree of life.”

Why Do Simple Organisms Still Exist? Charles Darwin Explains

Does natural selection have anything to do with the simplicity or complexity of an organism? Does the process of evolution ever end? Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution was controversial in its time, even among scientists. In the final edition of On the Origin of Species, released in 1872, Darwin responds to objections raised by skeptics. One of these is that simple organisms continue to exist even after some evolved into complex ones. Read more to learn Darwin’s rebuttals in defense of his theory.

Confucius Weighs in on the Importance of Hard Work in Life

Do you feel guilty when you know you could have done more? Could you be more productive if you arranged your life differently? In The Analects, Confucius teaches that good people work hard. So, if you want to be a decent person and live a meaningful life, you must put your mind to everything you do and give it your best. Continue reading to learn about the importance of hard work in life, according to Confucius.

How to Prepare for Public Speaking: 3 Steps to a Compelling Talk

When you’re preparing to give a speech, what should you do before you start to write? How can you leverage your strengths for maximum impact? Of course, preparation for public speaking entails writing your speech, but it’s more than that. In The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication, John C. Maxwell provides tips for drafting your presentation as well as a couple of steps that he recommends you take first. Keep reading to learn how to prepare for public speaking and create a strong message that’s sure to be remembered.

Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter: Best Friends and Confidantes

Why didn’t Rosalynn Carter accept Jimmy’s first marriage proposal? How did this couple redefine the role of the First Lady? In His Very Best, biographer Jonathan Alter tells the story of Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter. He discusses their courtship and their time together while Jimmy served in the US Navy, the White House, and beyond. Read on to learn about the shared life of this historic couple.

How to Find Fulfillment in Life: 11 Ways to Live in the Genius Zone

Do you spend your days doing work that’s not a good use of your skills? Do you spend your nights worrying that you won’t reach your potential? Psychologist Gay Hendricks asserts that genius isn’t just a matter of skill; it’s also about how you do the things you love and the depth of attention you devote to the tasks that are most satisfying to you. That’s why he recommends that you devote your time to creative work in your Genius Zone. Read more to learn how to find fulfillment in life and bring happiness to others by living in the Genius

The Evolution of Complexity: Charles Darwin Responds to Critics

How could something as complex as the human brain have evolved from a simpler structure? Does evolution naturally produce complexity? When Charles Darwin published On the Origin of Species, some scientists brought up a challenge to his theory of evolution: Complex features are difficult (if not impossible) to create through small increments as Darwin had suggested. In the last edition of his book, Darwin responded. Keep reading to learn about the evolution of complexity.

Why Is It Important to Be Honest? An Answer From Confucius

Why is it important to be honest? Is honesty just about telling the truth? In The Analects, Confucius offers direct advice about morality. He says that a single word can guide everything you do: the Chinese word “shu,” which means that you should treat others in the same way you want to be treated. One key aspect of this principle is honesty. Keep reading to learn about the importance of honesty in life.

How to Choose a Topic for a Speech by Teaming Up With Others

Have you been asked to give a speech? Are you seeking out opportunities to improve your public speaking skills? Public speaking expert John C. Maxwell shares advice on how to choose a topic for a speech in his book The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication. He recommends that you don’t go it alone; rather, you should find a few people who will brainstorm with you. Read more to learn how to find the right people and, together, come up with winning ideas for your speech.