The World's Best Book Summaries
Why does big data offer more honest information? How can big data spark hope? In Everybody Lies, Seth Stephens-Davidowitz says that big data offers more honest information than we’ve ever had before. This information can be found through Google search results that reveal truths about humanity. Learn why Stephens-Davidowitz believes this information can be used for good, and why others say differently.
How do you pray to God? Is there a wrong way to pray? There are many ways to pray to God, but there’s no wrong way. Julia Cameron, the author of Seeking Wisdom, says that you should speak to God in whatever way makes you feel comfortable. Keep reading to learn how to pray to God in your own way.
What are the struggles of dealing with stress and anxiety? Why is it so hard to change anxious behavior? According to Dr. Judson Brewer, many people struggle with getting rid of anxiety. He explains in his book Unwinding Anxiety that people are resistant to change because they believe anxiety has some benefits. Let’s look at why anxiety isn’t beneficial and the obstacles you’ll face while coping with anxiety.
What is central tendency in statistics? What are the different ways to measure central tendency? Central tendency is a descriptive statistic that represents the middle of a data set. There are three main statistical measures of central tendency: the mean, median, and mode. Each of these measures describes a slightly different central position within a data set. Let’s examine the three statistical measures of central tendency.
What is recall bias in research methodology? Why is self-reporting unreliable as a data-collection method? Recall bias is a major problem in studies where data is collected through self-reporting. Because human memory is not like a tape recorder, our recollection of the past is unreliable. There are significant psychological influences on how a memory is recollected (e.g. the personal meaning we’ve assigned to the events). Keep reading to learn about recall bias.
What are your true reasons for doing what you do? What do you want people to think your reasons are? In The Elephant in the Brain, software engineer Kevin Simler and economics professor Robin Hanson controversially argue that human behavior is driven by selfish motives—and that your own brain is hiding them from you. They contend that humans evolved to appear selfless even as they put themselves before others. Read more for this intriguing discussion about human motives.
What is the norepinephrine hormone’s function in the brain? How do you feel if you have too much or not enough? How can you produce more norepinephrine? The norepinephrine hormone functions primarily to boost your energy and make you feel more alert, according to Steven Kotler. Kotler’s self-help book, The Art of Impossible, outlines the importance of neurochemicals, like norepinephrine, in creating an overall sense of happiness and wellbeing. Read on to learn more about the function of the norepinephrine hormone, including Kotler’s advice for producing more “happy hormones.”
What benefits does data science have that human intuition doesn’t? Why is data an extension of our intuition? In Everybody Lies, Seth Stephens-Davidowitz looks at the bigger picture of what big data is and why we should care about it. Though data science might seem arcane, Stephens-Davidowitz argues that it’s an extension of our natural intuition. Let’s look at the major benefits of data science that natural intuition doesn’t have.
What is “flow?” Why is it so hard to find your flow these days? Flow is our highest form of sustained attention. Johann Hari, the author of Stolen Focus, argues that the distractions of modern life are destroying it. Find out what makes finding your flow so difficult these days.
Can your brain get inflamed? What happens when chronic inflammation develops in the brain? Inflammation is meant to protect our bodies, but when it becomes chronic, it can be damaging. Chronic brain inflammation is one of the key factors in the onset of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Here’s how chronic inflammation in the brain contributes to cognitive decline.