How Cortical Columns Act as Mini-Brains (and Could Inform AI)

A diagram of two neurons with cell nucleus, synapse, and dendrites illustrate what happens inside cortical columns

Do you understand how your brain processes information? What if your brain was actually made up of thousands of mini-brains working together? In A Thousand Brains, neuroscientist Jeff Hawkins introduces the concept of cortical columns. These are small units in the brain that act like mini-brains, each processing information and making predictions. Hawkins explains how these columns work together to create our complex cognitive abilities. Read more to learn how your brain might be more intricate than you ever imagined.

The True Believer: Book Overview & Takeaways (Eric Hoffer)

a bearded middle-aged man with grey hair reading a book outside with a building in the background

What drives people to join mass movements? What makes some movements succeed while others fizzle out? In his book The True Believer, Eric Hoffer explores the psychology behind mass movements. He examines why certain groups are more susceptible to joining these movements and what factors contribute to their success or failure. Keep reading to discover Hoffer’s insights on the forces that shape our society and drive social change.

Our Abstract Thinking Ability & the Science Behind It

A young thoughtful man in profile with a cityscape in the background illustrates our abstract thinking ability

How does your brain process abstract concepts? How does our ability to think abstractly shape our understanding of the world? In his book A Thousand Brains, neuroscientist Jeff Hawkins seeks to explain our incredible abstract thinking ability. He proposes that our brain uses similar mechanisms for both concrete and abstract thought. Continue reading to explore the complex mysteries of abstract thinking.

The Republic, Book 10: Socrates Answers the Challenge

An ancient Greek philosopher sitting in a chair and teaching illustrates The Republic Book 10

How does Plato’s Republic end? How does Socrates respond to the challenge outlined in the beginning? In The Republic, Book 10, Socrates argues that the just person, embodied by the philosopher-king, leads the most fulfilling life. He also presents a mythical tale about the afterlife, where souls are judged based on their earthly deeds. Read on for an exploration of justice, pleasure, and the afterlife as we unpack Plato’s timeless wisdom.

No Consequences? Taking Determinism to Its Logical Conclusion

A nighttime scene with city lights in the background and a profile of a young man considering a world with no consequences

Are you tired of feeling guilty for your actions? Is that feeling justified? What if you’re not responsible for what you do and say? In his book Determined, Robert Sapolsky explores the concept of determinism and its implications for personal responsibility. He challenges our traditional notions of praise, blame, and punishment in a world with no consequences for our choices. Keep reading to understand Sapolsky’s thought-provoking ideas about human behavior and accountability.

4 Ways to Offload Low-Value Tasks & Stop the Energy Drain

an entrepreneur looking at a list of tasks to do, a calendar, and many sticky notes illustrates dealing with low-value tasks

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your daily tasks? Do you find yourself wasting time on low-value activities? In his book Buy Back Your Time, Dan Martell offers practical strategies for eliminating low-value tasks from your schedule. He provides four options for freeing yourself from energy-draining activities and suggests hiring a personal assistant to manage your time more effectively. Read on to discover how you can reclaim your time and focus on what truly matters in your work and life.

Harris Faulkner’s Faith Still Moves Mountains: Book Overview

a woman reading a book by a window in a cafe with a cup of coffee and a spiral notebook and pen on the table

Have you ever felt like your faith was wavering? Do you wonder if God still performs miracles in our modern world? Harris Faulkner’s Faith Still Moves Mountains explores how God responds to prayer and faith through real-life stories. This book showcases divine interventions that save lives, ease hardships, and strengthen relationships. Continue reading to be inspired by tales of hope, perseverance, and the enduring power of faith.

What Is a Mass Movement? Eric Hoffer Explains

a drawing of people massing together into a large group illustrates the question, "What is a mass movement?"

What is a mass movement? What drives people to join them? What makes these movements so powerful and influential? In his book The True Believer, Eric Hoffer explores the psychology behind mass movements. He delves into why certain groups captivate those feeling alienated or discontented. This article will examine Hoffer’s insights and their relevance to today’s global landscape. Continue reading to learn what mass movements are and why it’s important to understand them.

Robert Sapolsky Says Determinism—Not Free Will—Is Our Reality

Dominoes in a row with the first ones starting to fall, depicting the domino effect and Robert Sapolsky's determinism theory

How well do you understand the concept of free will? Do you believe that your choices are truly your own? In his book Determined, Robert Sapolsky explores the theory of determinism and its implications for human behavior. He lays out arguments against free will and shares how scientific advancements support his views on determinism. Keep reading to discover how Robert Sapolsky’s determinism theory challenges our understanding of personal choice and responsibility.

How to Hire for Startups & Free Up Your Time for Other Tasks

a young man in a business suit in front of people ready for an interview illustrates how to hire for startups

Are you struggling to find the right talent for your startup? Do you want to learn how to hire effectively without wasting time and resources? In Buy Back Your Time, Dan Martell offers valuable insights on how to hire for startups. He provides practical strategies for identifying, attracting, and selecting the best candidates to help grow your business. Read more to explore Martell’s approach to eliminating important but unenjoyable tasks through smart hiring.