Shortform Books

Human Violence Is the By-Product of Civilization

Is violence a part of human nature? Or was our good nature corrupted by civilization? In his book Humankind, Bregman argues that human violence is not a natural impulse. He maintains that humans’ transition from foraging to civilization created societies that were more violent, less equitable, and less healthy. However, human nature by itself is fundamentally good. Let’s take a closer look at the negative effects that began to arise when our ancestors made this transition.

The Sociological Imagination by C. Wright Mills

What is “sociological imagination”? Is it a better approach to social science? How does it protect human freedom? In The Sociological Imagination, professor and sociologist C. Wright Mills explains what kind of social science—that is, science that studies human society and its institutions—contributes to a free and open society. He argues that, to protect freedom, social scientists must develop a “sociological imagination”: the ability to understand the relationship between a society and the individuals living in it. Additionally, Mills critiques other contemporary approaches to social science and how they fail to protect—and in some cases, actively threaten—free society. Here’s our

Carl Sagan on Mars Colonization and Space Exploration

Did Carl Sagan believe there’s life on Mars? Did he believe that humans should colonize the planet? At the time Sagan wrote Cosmos, no compelling evidence for life has been found on Mars. Sagan says that as long as life isn’t found, humans should create an atmosphere on Mars and attempt to colonize it. If life is found, that’s another story. Here’s what Carl Sagan wrote about space exploration and Mars.

Getting the Love You Want: Quotes With Explanations

What are the most important quotes from Getting the Love You Want? How can these quotes help you heal your childhood wounds? According to Harville Hendrix and Helen LaKelly Hunt, you can engage your conscious mind to take control of your relationship. You can do this by becoming aware of the subconscious needs that drive what you expect from your significant others. Read below for insightful Getting the Love You Want quotes with explanations.

Purpose Discussion: Full Guide for Individuals & Teams

What is the meaning of a purpose discussion? What are the steps for conducting a purpose discussion? A purpose discussion is a process Find Your Why author Simon Sinek created with co-authors David Mead and Peter Docker to identify your purpose. The authors’ step-by-step process can be followed with a partner to create an individual purpose statement, or applied in a group discussion to come up with a team or organization’s purpose. Keep reading for a complete guide to conducting a purpose discussion for both individuals and teams.

Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle: Example for Leadership

What is Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle example? How should leaders use Sinek’s model? Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle example was introduced in his popular 2009 TED Talk. Aside from being a motivational speaker and author, Sinek also helped others find their purpose by working directly with individuals and organizations. Keep reading to learn about purposeful leadership using Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle example.

Ernest Shackleton’s Elephant Island Rescue Mission

What happened on Elephant Island while Ernest Shackleton fulfilled his rescue mission? Who was in charge on Elephant Island? After the Endurance ship sank, Ernest Shackleton and his crew headed to Elephant Island. There, Shackleton put Frank Wild in charge as they awaited rescue. Continue reading to find out what happened on Elephant Island, Ernest Shackleton’s plan for rescue, and how long the crew was on the Island.

Daydreaming: The Psychology of Zoning Out

Do you zone out a lot? What is the psychology behind daydreaming? Daydreaming is a mundane act, but it can reveal a lot about your subconscious. According to Brianna Wiest, the author of 101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think, your daydreams are the projection of the things that you feel you most lack and are relying on others to fulfill. Here’s what your daydreams may reveal about your subconscious needs and desires.

Future of Population Growth: The Effect on the Economy

What is the future of population growth? How does population affect the economy? In Capital in the Twenty-First Century, Thomas Piketty says that population growth will likely slow in future decades. This means that production will slow down and the capital-to-income ratio will rise. Check out why the future of population growth is essential for the economy.

The Habits of Happy People: Acceptance and Self-Care

What habits can make you happier? What everyday choices can you make to find greater satisfaction in life? Naval Ravikant believes that happiness is a choice. The right habits will make that choice stick. Ravikant outlines several habits relating to acceptance and self-care that he argues are essential to finding contentment in life. Let’s unpack these habits of happy people.