Shortform Books

Explaining Marxism: The Bourgeoisie and Proletariat

What is the role of Marxism’s bourgeoisie and proletariat classes in The Communist Manifesto? How do the two classes differ? In Marxism, the bourgeoisie and proletariat are the two major classes that participate in the class struggle. The bourgeoisie own and hoard wealth and resources, while the proletariat are the laborers that make this possible. Communism is a system in which the proletariat would have control of resources they work for, instead. Read more about Marxism, the bourgeoisie and proletariat, and their role in Communism.

What are the Elements of a Story? King Explains

What are the elements of a story? How can you incorporate these elements into your writing? The elements of a story are narration, description, and dialogue. These three key elements of a story should always be in your writing and you should work to strengthen them. Read more about the question “what are the elements of a story” and how to use them in your wriitng.

Value Networks: How Much Are Your Parts Worth?

What is a value network? What is the significance of value networks for innovation? Value networks are the sum of producers and markets for the components of a product. They represent the value of each piece. Read more about value networks and understand what a value network means for innovation.

AA Tools: Inventories, Prayers, and People

What are the main AA tools? How do these tools help set you up for success in recovery? AA tools rely on other people in the program, such as your AA sponsor, as well as the work you do in self-reflection and prayer. Read more about the AA tools used in the 12-Step Program.

History of Jim Crow Laws: Emancipation to Incarceration

What is the history of Jim Crow laws? How does The New Jim Crow examine modern Jim Crow laws in place? The history of Jim Crow laws is a pattern of systematic racial discrimination. Using actions that create racial segregation, the rise and fall of Jim Crow came back around to the new Jim Crow. Read more to understand the history of Jim Crow laws, and the the rise and fall of Jim Crow.

System Limits: Why They Happen + How to Stop Them

What are system limits? What types of system limits are there, and how can we overcome these limits to build better systems? System limits are our own blind spots regarding systems. Often, we limit ourselves by not using the system to its full potential. Read more about system limits and how to overcome them.

What Is The New Jim Crow? Using Drugs to Segregate

What is The New Jim Crow book and what is it about? What are the new Jim Crow laws? Modern day Jim Crow is a term that refers to laws that effectively amount to racial segregation. What is The New Jim Crow book saying about this? Alexander argues that a racially biased justice system is the modern day Jim Crow. So, what is The New Jim Crow? Keep reading to find out.

Intel Microprocessor History: Accidental Innovation

How did the microprocessor get developed? What happened over the course of Intel microprocessor history? Intel microprocessor history covers the period beginning in the 1970s. Intel microprocessor evolution happened by accident and wasn’t initially seen as a disruptive innovation. Read more about Intel microprocessor history.

What is Escalation? A Guide to System Failures

What is escalation in systems thinking? How can escalation cause a system to fail? Escalation is an increase in the system, when pressure is put on it. Knowing the answer to the quest “what is escalation” can help you identify system failures and learn how to stop them. So what is escalation in systems thinking? Read to find out.

Reactionary Socialism: Responses to the Bourgeoisie

What is reactionary socialism? What does it mean and how is it defined in The Communist Manifesto? Reactionary socialism is one of the types of socialism discussed in The Communist Manifesto. Reactionary socialism refers to groups of people who are not in the bourgeoisie or proletariat, but who want to improve the existing political structure. Read more about reactionary socialism.