Shortform Books

Reddit Moderators Are Protesting—Here’s Why

Why are Reddit moderators protesting? What new changes does Reddit plan to make? How have similar situations panned out in the past? Volunteer Reddit moderators are protesting a change to the platform’s policies that would potentially put an end to most third-party Reddit apps. Reddit contends the change is necessary to increase advertising revenue and reduce overhead. Here’s a look at the proposed changes, how it would affect Reddit moderators, and examples of similar situations from the past.

Some Are Saying Crypto Is Dead—Are They Right?

Is crypto dead? Is there hope for its revival? Are there other uses for blockchain technology? In November 2021, the price of Bitcoin peaked at over $68,000. A year later the price had dropped below $18,000 and the cryptocurrency industry witnessed the collapse of the cryptocurrency exchange FTX. Today, the promising world of virtual currencies is growing more fringe and isolated. Keep reading to learn why some are saying “crypto is dead” in 2023.

Who Were the Dixiecrats? Their Dominance & Departure

Who were the Dixiecrats? How does their story shed light on the transformation of the Democratic Party in the 20th century? Ezra Klein writes that, in the mid-20th century, conservative Southern Democrats were the heart of the Democratic Party. He examines the history of these “Dixiecrats” and explains the significant role they played in American politics. Read more to learn how and why Dixiecrats dominated—and then exited—the Democratic Party.

The Blue Mind Effect: Why We’re Naturally Drawn to Water

Why do humans find water appealing? How does it engage our senses? Humans are attracted to the way water looks, feels, and sounds. Wallace J. Nichols calls this the Blue Mind effect. He lays out the multifaceted appeal of water in his book Blue Mind, explaining that our attraction to water goes beyond our need to survive. Read on to learn about the fascinating phenomenon of the Blue Mind effect.

How to Get the Attention of Your Audience (and Keep It)

Should you use humor to open a speech? What are some ways to appeal to people’s needs and desires? Dale Carnegie’s public speaking advice has helped countless people reach their audiences. In Public Speaking for Success, he shares several recommendations for speaking in ways that make people want to hear more. Continue reading to learn how to get the attention of your audience and keep it throughout your speech.

The Way of Zen Quotes From Alan Watts (With Context)

Why shouldn’t Zen Buddhism be considered a religion? How is it liberating? How does Zen Buddhism conceive of time? Though most of us have a passing familiarity with the concept of Zen, few of us really know what “Zen” means or could articulate how Zen Buddhism describes reality and human life. Philosopher Alan Watts explains the major principles and the history of Zen Buddhism in The Way of Zen. Read on for several The Way of Zen quotes that will give you a taste of the book’s ideas.

What Got Us Here? A History of Political Polarization in America

Was American politics always like this? Did politicians always seek to stir up partisan fervor among their supporters by antagonizing the other side? According to Ezra Klein, the answer to these excellent questions is “No.” In Why We’re Polarized, he writes that the story of modern polarization is rooted in cleavages in the political system that began in the 1950s and 1960s, during the civil rights era. Read on for a brief history of political polarization in America.

Female Networking Is Hard—Here Are 3 Tips for Success

Do you need more friends as a woman? What’s the key to mastering female networking? Having a close network of women is great for support and inspiration. You can learn a lot just by observing or talking to other successful women who’ve been in your position. Below we’ve compiled tips on female networking from Rachel Rodgers’ helpful book We Should All Be Millionaires.

How to Take Advice From Others & Your Own Intuition

Do you blindly adopt or reject advice? What’s the best way to make the most of counsel? When Tim Ferriss wanted some advice, he sent the same list of 11 questions to scores of experts, promising to put his favorite responses into a book. The result is Tribe of Mentors. The book starts with a topic that might influence how you read the rest of it: how to take advice from others and even yourself. Keep reading for some insights on how to interpret and apply advice.

Alexander Hamilton’s Biography by Ron Chernow: Book Overview

Why is Alexander Hamilton considered one of the most important figures in United States history? What role did Hamelton play in establishing US capitalism? Ron Chernow’s biography of Alexander Hamilton considers the Founding Father’s life and legacy, including his unlikely ascension from a poor student to a trusted advisor of George Washington. Chernow also covers how the events of Hamilton’s life have influenced American history. Read below for a brief overview of Alexander Hamilton’s biography.