Shortform Books

Karl Marx: Human Nature Is Determined by Socioeconomic Status

What determines whether a person is good or bad? Are we inherently one or the other? According to Karl Marx, human nature isn’t fixed or universal. That philosophy stands in contrast to the traditional Christian view of human nature. Carl Trueman argues that Marx’s concept of political selfhood reshaped our ideas about the self, morality, and human nature—ultimately transforming society. Keep reading for an introduction to Marx’s philosophy of human nature in this intriguing historical context.

The 3 Meditation States: Samādhi, Sati, and Bodhi

What is meditation? What are the three meditation states everyone should experience? According to The Mind Illuminated, there are three meditation states that will help you stay in the moment: concentration, mindfulness, and enlightenment. Each state has unique benefits that anyone can take advantage of. Let’s look at these states below and how to achieve them.

Think Big: Grace Lordan Explains How to Build the Future You Want

What’s the key to transforming your life? How can little things add up to big achievements? In Think Big, Grace Lordan explains how you can take small steps and build the future you want. One key is to go slow and steady. Another is to overcome the cognitive biases that often get in the way of your goals. Continue reading for an overview of this practical and inspiring book that can propel you toward your ideal future.

The Disadvantages of Data Analytics in Product Development

What are the disadvantages of data analytics in product development? How can hard data fail to support business innovation? In his book Competing Against Luck, Clayton Christensen challenges the conventional thinking around business innovation and highlights the disadvantages of relying solely on data analytics to guide decision-making. Christensen argues that this approach often leads to disappointment. Keep reading to learn the two key disadvantages of data analytics in business, according to Christensen.

Why Skills Assessment Tools Are Critical for Hiring

Are you trying to hire the perfect candidate? How do you find out if someone will be the right person for the job? Every company aims to hire the best talent based on their budget and needs. But, it’s not uncommon for applicants to include vague or misleading statements in their resumes. Some even go as far as to lie during interviews while trying to impress you. The struggle is real. It’s very hard today to eliminate the bad apples in a pool of applicants. This is why almost 60% of companies ask applicants to prove their worth prior to

Overview of The Startup of You: A Guide to Career Success

What is The Startup of You by Reid Hoffman and Ben Casnocha about? Does job stability seem like a thing of the past? Why should you treat yourself like a startup business? In The Startup of You, LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman and entrepreneur Ben Casnocha argue that the job market is changing faster than ever. To build a successful career in the modern world, you must approach your career as if it were a startup company. Read below for a brief overview of The Startup of You.

How Persuasive People Take Advantage of the Zero-Risk Bias

Why do people have a zero-risk bias? How can it be used to one’s advantage? Peter D. Andrei explains that effective communication takes psychology into account. When you understand how people’s minds work, you’re more likely to be able to persuade them. He discusses several cognitive biases, including the zero-risk bias, in the context of rhetoric. Keep reading to learn how to take advantage of the zero-risk bias, even when the risk isn’t zero.

Aristotle’s Rhetorical Appeals—Pathos, Logos, Ethos, & Kairos

What are Aristotle’s rhetorical appeals? How can you use these appeals to successfully persuade an audience? Aristotle’s rhetorical appeals are pathos, logos, ethos, and kairos. According to René Rodriguez in Amplify Your Influence, using all of these in a presentation is a surefire way to keep your audience engaged with your ideas. Let’s look at how you can use these techniques to be the most persuasive speaker around.

How to Figure Out Who You Want to Be: Naming Your True Desires

Do you tend to keep doing the same thing without a good reason for it? Which work tasks do you truly enjoy? What skills does your future self have? In Think Big, behavioral science expert Grace Lordan addresses the fact that many people fail to transform their lives despite a desire to do so. She acknowledges that achieving big goals takes a few years and provides practical advice for making the journey toward your ideal self. Read more to discover how to figure out who you want to be—the first step on that journey.

Unraveling Consumer Expectations: The Key to Innovation

Why is it important to understand consumer expectations? How can it drive product innovation and success? In today’s competitive business landscape, understanding what motivates consumers is paramount to achieving success. According to Clayton Christensen’s book Competing Against Luck, by aligning products with consumer expectations, companies can accurately predict their success in the market. Keep reading to learn how to truly understand consumer expectations, according to Christensen.