Examples of Insights: How Some People Saw What Others Didn’t

A cartoon depiction of Isaac Newton under the apple tree illustrates examples of insights

What patterns do breakthrough thinkers notice that others miss? How do some people make connections that revolutionize entire fields of knowledge? In his book, Seeing What Others Don’t, Gary Klein explores what causes breakthroughs in thinking. His research reveals fascinating examples of insights in science, medicine, engineering, architecture, literature, and more. Keep reading to discover how these examples of insight demonstrate what sets breakthrough thinking apart.

Data Storytelling Basics: Where to Start (Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic)

A man looking at graphs on a desktop computer screen illustrates data storytelling basics

Are you looking for ways to make your data more engaging and impactful? Have you wondered which visualization techniques work best for communicating your insights effectively? In her book Storytelling With Data, Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic emphasizes the importance of mastering data storytelling basics before attempting advanced techniques. She recommends starting with fundamental visualizations while focusing on creating a shared understanding with your audience. Read on to discover how you can develop these essential skills and help your entire team become more proficient in communicating with data.

2 Medical Anti-Aging Strategies From Jellyfish Age Backwards

A female scientist in a lab studying medical antiaging strategies

Is it possible to reduce or reverse the symptoms of aging? What medical anti-aging strategies does Nicklas Brendborg suggest? Nicklas Brendborg, in his book Jellyfish Age Backwards, uses Turritopsis dohrnii—the immortal jellyfish—as an entry point to explore the latest research on longevity. He discusses two scientific methods of anti-aging: medications and cellular engineering. Continue reading for a closer look at each one.

Internet Distractions: Why Is Going Online So Addictive?

A woman looking at a computer screen, pulled in by internet distractions

Why are internet distractions so alluring? How are algorithms created to keep us distracted? In Attention Span, Gloria Mark says we wouldn’t be drawn to electronic distractions if not for the internet. Digital connectivity makes more information readily available than ever before, but this comes with some unanticipated costs. Keep reading to learn how the internet plays a big part in our subconscious psychological desire to lose focus.

How Consciousness and Language Are Intertwined (Julian Jaynes)

A person with a thought bubble with the word "ideas" over their head depicts the link between consciousness and language

What role did language play in the emergence of human consciousness? How did metaphorical thinking transform our ancestors’ cognitive abilities? Julian Jaynes proposes that consciousness developed not through biological evolution but through cultural changes driven by language. He argues that consciousness and language are deeply intertwined, with metaphors allowing humans to express abstract concepts and develop self-awareness. Read on to explore Jaynes’s theory about how our minds evolved from hearing divine voices to developing rich inner lives.

Sigmund Freud & the Unconscious Mind: Did He Get It Right?

A photograph of Sigmund Freud by Max Halberstadt illustrates Sigmund Freud's unconscious mind theories

How much of your thinking happens without your awareness? What invisible forces might be guiding your decisions and perceptions right now? The human brain processes information in ways that largely escape our conscious notice. Science writer Leonard Mlodinow explains how modern neuroscience has confirmed Sigmund Freud’s core insight that unconscious processes shape our experiences and behaviors. Keep reading to learn about Sigmund Freud’s unconscious mind theories and the developments scientists have made since Freud.

How Does Music Work in the Brain? (Daniel J. Levitin)

Musical notes around a brain, showing how music works

When you listen to music, what happens in your brain? What’s the difference between focused listening and experiential fusion? In his book I Heard There Was a Secret Chord, neuroscientist and musician Daniel J. Levitin explains how the human brain experiences music. He details why two people experience music differently and why everyone has different tastes. Continue reading to understand how music works in the brain.

Freud: Determinism Is Real, But We Have Some Control

A black and white sketch of Sigmund Freud illustrates Freud's determinism philosophy

How much control do you truly have over your thoughts and actions? What happens when your unconscious mind influences decisions you believe you’re making consciously? For Sigmund Freud, determinism was an inescapable reality. The concept seemed to fit well with his ideas about the unconscious mind. But, he also believed that we can gain some control over our lives through understanding the hidden influences of unconscious forces. Keep reading to discover how the relationship between your conscious and unconscious mind might be more complex—and more fascinating—than you realize.

How to Tell a Story With Data: Turn Numbers Into Narrative

How to Tell a Story With Data: Turn Numbers Into Narrative

Is your data failing to persuade your audience despite its accuracy? Why do some presentations move people to action while others leave them unmoved, even when the numbers are solid? Transforming raw data into compelling narratives requires specific techniques and thoughtful planning. In her book Storytelling With Data, Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic breaks down how to tell a story with data into three essential steps. Continue reading to discover how you can translate your numbers into stories that stick with your audience and inspire meaningful action.

Can Cellular Engineering Reverse Aging? Yes, But at a Steep Cost

Glass test tubes in a lab that does cellular engineering

Can the human aging process be reversed? What are the associated risks with cellular engineering? Nicklas Brendborg is a Danish biotechnologist and science writer. He writes in his book Jellyfish Age Backwards that scientists have discovered a couple of ways to reverse aging, however, they pose dangerous health risks. Here’s a look at the two cellular engineering methods that Brendborg discusses.