Shortform Books

Saifedean Ammous: How Trustless Is Bitcoin, Really?

How trustless is bitcoin, really? How are trustless transactions executed on the bitcoin network? The bitcoin network is designed in such a way that it makes it possible to complete financial transactions without the need for trust. The payee can’t default on the payment because the transaction is verified by the whole network—a large number of independently-operated servers all over the world. Here’s how bitcoin makes trustless transactions possible.

Maintaining Healthy Habits: Beware of These Traps

How do you maintain healthy habits? What are the main reasons people fall off track with new habits? Once you’ve formed a new habit, you may feel like the hard part is over. However, you should still be aware of factors that might tempt you to break your habit. When you recognize your personal set of challenges to your good habits, you can better address them as they appear. Here are some common circumstances that make maintaining healthy habits difficult.

The Basic Assumptions of Science: Neil deGrasse Tyson Explains

What are the basic assumptions of science? What has been confirmed through experiments and observations? Neil deGrasse Tyson explains that science is universal: we can depend on the laws of nature. Science relies on certain assumptions that we’ve made after sufficient experimentation and observation. Still, there’s room for mystery and discovery. Read more to learn the basic assumptions of science that undergird our understanding of the universe.

The Benefits of Stoicism: Knowing What to Pursue & How to Get It

What do you want out of life? What should you pursue—and how should you pursue it? These days, many people chase after fame or fortune in an effort to find joy and peace. Philosophy professor William B. Irvine issues a warning for this way of thinking and recommends that Stoicism is a better path to true happiness. Read more to learn about the benefits of Stoicism and see how this ancient philosophy can help you successfully navigate life.

The 3 Forms of Data Manipulation in Research

What is data manipulation in research? What are methods of data manipulation you should avoid? Unfortunately, some researchers manipulate data to fit their hypothesis. In Bad Science, Ben Goldacre discusses the ethics of altering data in an unprofessional way. Check out how to spot data manipulation in research.

Warren Buffett: Early Life, Parents, & School

What was Warren Buffett’s early life like? How did his childhood shape his career? According to Alice Schroeder’s book The Snowball, Warren Buffett didn’t have the greatest childhood. However, it was instrumental in building the man he is today and the success he built. Read below to learn more about the early life of Warren Buffett.

5 Ways to Practice Self-Care in Recovery

What is the importance of self-care in recovery? Why should you be kind to yourself when working toward sobriety? In Quit Like a Woman, Holly Whitaker argues that one of the most important facets of your recovery journey is to learn to be kind to yourself to heal your inner wounds. Only when you’re gentle and forgiving with yourself will you be able to stop suffering permanently. Let’s look at several aspects of practicing self-care in recovery.

Becoming Bulletproof by Evy Poumpouras: Book Overview

Looking for an overview of Becoming Bulletproof by Evy Poumpouras? What’s her advice for becoming a more resilient person? In Becoming Bulletproof, former Secret Service agent Evy Poumpouras helps you become a stronger, more resilient person. Through her time in the U.S. Secret Service, Poumpouras learned how to conquer her fears and overcome difficult physical and mental challenges. Read on for an overview of Becoming Bulletproof—Evy Poumpouras’s book on dealing effectively with fear.

Tech Company Layoffs Surge—Economists Unfazed

Why are tech companies laying off employees? Which tech companies are having layoffs? How do economists explain this issue? November alone has seen tens of thousands of tech company layoffs, many from large companies like Meta, Twitter, and Amazon. Experts believe that these layoffs are being driven, in large part, by the end of the Covid-19 pandemic and economic uncertainty in the near future. Read on to learn why economists say tech company layoffs aren’t a major concern for the future.

Distorted Memories: How They Misrepresent the Present

How do memories impact the here and now? How can you minimize the distortions? Humans don’t remember everything exactly the way it happened. While the past is the past, your perception of it is now—and it’s affecting the present. Your distorted memories can cause you to see the present inaccurately. Continue reading to understand how this works and learn what you can do about it.