Hannah Aster, Author at Shortform Books

Eric Berne’s Transactional Analysis Theory: Explained

What is Eric Berne’s transactional analysis theory? What was Berne’s goal in developing his theory? In his book Games People Play, Eric Berne explains his approach to understanding social interaction: Transactional Analysis. Berne’s goal wasn’t just to analyze human interactions, but to discover destructive patterns so people can realize what games they’re playing (intentional or not) and improve their relationships with others. Let’s take a look at the key tenets of Berne’s theory.

How to Evaluate an Argument Using Logos

What is logos in the context of persuasion? How can you use logos to evaluate an argument? Logos is used in persuasive arguments to convey logic and reason. Alternatively, you can use logos to evaluate an argument. There are three aspects of a rhetorical fallacy that you should keep an eye out for: weak proof, a bad conclusion, or a proof-conclusion disconnect. Here’s how to evaluate an argument and identify faulty logic using logos.

Don’t Let Investment Uncertainty Hold You Back

Does fear of uncertainty hold you back from investing? Are you nervous about putting your money in a long-term investment account, not knowing how much it will grow? According to Morgan Housel, the author of The Psychology of Money, investment uncertainty holds many people back. However, the longer you put off investing due to fear, the smaller your returns will be. Here’s why accepting uncertainty is key to achieving long-term investing success.

How Social Programming Drives Interactions

What is social programming? Where does social programming stem from? In his book Games People Play, Dr. Eric Berne says that people play different kinds of social games depending on their social programming. This programming can come from multiple sources including culture and genetics. Here’s how social programming drives social interactions.

How to Use Ethos to Judge an Argument

What is ethos in the context of persuasion? How do you use ethos to evaluate a persuasive argument? Ethos is used to gain credibility and trust in a persuasive argument. However, it can be used for more than just writing a persuasive essay—you can use ethos to judge the arguments of others. The three things you need to look out for are the virtue, level of interest, and practical wisdom of the speaker. Here’s how to use ethos to judge an argument.

How to Start Saving Money Regardless of Your Income

Do you regularly put money aside in a savings account? Why is it important to save money? We’re told from a young age that having a savings account is important, but many people don’t have savings because they feel like they don’t make enough money to save. According to Morgan Housel, the author of The Psychology of Money, this way of thinking is incorrect and harmful—everyone should save money even if they don’t have a high income. Here’s how to start saving money even if you don’t have a high income.

How to Use Logos in a Persuasive Argument

What is logos in the context of persuasion? How do you use logos in a persuasive argument? Logos, in terms of a persuasive argument, is appealing to the audience’s logic or reason. Jay Heinrichs, the author of Thank You for Arguing, outlines four steps for using logos to your advantage. Here’s how to use logos in a persuasive argument.

The 3 Elements of Ethos: Persuasion Basics

What is ethos in the context of persuasion? How can you use the three elements of ethos to make a persuasive argument? Ethos is used in persuasive arguments to establish trustworthiness and credibility as a speaker or writer. There are three essential elements to developing ethos: virtue, personal disinterest, and practical wisdom. Keep reading to learn about the three building blocks of ethos and how to use them in a persuasive argument.

Persuasive Argument: What It Is and How to Build One

What is a persuasive argument? What are the key building blocks of an argument that is meant to persuade? A persuasive argument consists of three steps: choosing a goal, choosing a tense, and choosing an appeal. In a persuasive argument, you’ll typically use Aristotle’s three classical persuasive appeals—ethos, logos, and pathos—to achieve your goal. Continue below to learn how to construct a persuasive argument.

Jay Heinrichs: Thank You for Arguing—Book Overview

What is Jay Heinrichs’s Thank You for Arguing about? What is the key message to take away from the book? In his book Thank You for Arguing, Jay Heinrichs explains not only how to persuade people to do what you want, but also how to help opposing groups find common ground, get a bully to talk himself down, and spot the faulty logic others use to manipulate you. He also discusses the importance of teaching rhetoric in schools. Here’s a brief overview of the key themes.