Germline Editing Ethics: Walter Isaacson Lays Out the Debate

Three men in lab coats discuss germline editing ethics with a chalkboard in the background

Is it ethical to edit the genes of future generations? What are the potential benefits and risks of germline editing? Germline editing ethics is a complex and controversial topic. Scientists and philosophers debate the morality of altering DNA that can be passed down to future offspring. In The Code Breaker, Walter Isaacson shares arguments for and against this practice. Keep reading to explore the nuanced perspectives on this cutting-edge technology and its implications for humanity’s future.

The Blank Slate by Steven Pinker: Book Overview & Takeaways

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What shapes human nature? Are we born as blank slates, or do our genes play a role in who we become? The Blank Slate by Steven Pinker challenges long-held beliefs about human nature. Pinker argues that science shows we’re not blank slates. Instead, we have innate tendencies shaped by our genes. He explores how this view impacts our understanding of personality, morality, and social issues. Read more for an overview of this book that explores what makes us human.

Steven Pinker’s Critique of Romanticism—With Help From Science

A magnifying glass magnifying the word "ROMANTICISM" illustrates a critique of romanticism

Is human nature inherently good or bad? Are we born altruistic or selfish? In The Blank Slate, Steven Pinker explores the philosophy of romanticism and its impact on our understanding of human nature. He challenges the notion that humans are naturally benevolent and examines the scientific evidence against this view. Read on for a thought-provoking critique of romanticism and its implications for individual and social progress.

Steven Pinker’s Critique of Empiricism: Forget the Blank Slate

A man writing the word "empiricism" on a chalkboard illustrates a critique of empiricism

Are you familiar with the nature versus nurture debate? Are we truly born as blank slates? Steven Pinker’s The Blank Slate challenges the popular notion of empiricism in human nature. He argues against the idea that our personalities and behaviors are solely shaped by our environment, presenting a critique of empiricism that’s both thought-provoking and controversial. Read on to understand Pinker’s compelling arguments and the scientific evidence he uses to support his claims.

Dualism and Free Will: Where the Connection Fails (Pinker)

A depiction of a human brain illustrates the concepts of dualism and free will

Is there more to the human mind than just physical processes? Could our consciousness be something beyond the material world? In The Blank Slate, Steven Pinker examines the age-old debate about whether our minds are separate from our bodies. Pinker challenges the traditional view that connects dualism and free will, and he presents scientific evidence to back up his argument. Read on to get into this thought-provoking exploration of consciousness, free will, and the nature of the human mind.

What Is Effective Altruism? William MacAskill Explains

A piggy bank with a halo over its head illustrates what effective altruism is

What is effective altruism? How might it help you make the biggest positive impact on the world? In Doing Good Better, William MacAskill explores the concept of effective altruism. He outlines key principles for making informed decisions about how to use your resources to help others most effectively. The book offers practical guidance for those seeking to make a meaningful difference in the world. Read on to discover what effective altruism is and how you can apply its principles to your life.

Conservatism vs. Progressivism: Steven Pinker Picks a Winner

Two men in suits debating each other with red, white, and blue clouds in the background depicts conservatism vs progressivism

Are humans inherently selfish and corruptible? How does our view of human nature shape our political beliefs? Steven Pinker’s The Blank Slate explores the age-old debate of conservatism vs. progressivism through the lens of human nature. He argues that traditional conservative views align more closely with scientific findings about our inherent traits and tendencies. Continue reading to discover how Pinker’s insights challenge long-held assumptions and potentially reshape our understanding of political ideologies.

Counterfactual Reasoning & Effective Altruism (MacAskill)

A man standing at a crossroads with signs that point in various directions illustrates counterfactual reasoning

Do you ever think about what could have been? How can answering that question help you make better decisions? In his book Doing Good Better, William MacAskill presents the concept of counterfactual reasoning as a tool for effective altruism. He explains how this approach can help you evaluate the real-world impact of your charitable choices and career decisions. Read more to discover a more strategic approach to making a difference in the world.

The Scientific View of Human Nature: Steven Pinker Explains

A collage of three people--a young man, a young woman, and an old woman--illustrate the scientific view of human nature

What’s wrong with the mainstream view of human nature? How does it hold up in light of current scientific understanding? In The Blank Slate, Steven Pinker lays out his scientific arguments against the mainstream view of human nature. Then, he articulates a scientific view of human nature and what this alternative perspective means for gender differences, politics, and our understanding of personality. Read more to understand where Pinker is coming from.

Why the Mainstream Theory of Human Nature Is Flawed (Pinker)

People walking down a city street illustrates the mainstream theory of human nature

What’s the mainstream theory of human nature? Why does Steven Pinker think it’s old-fashioned and, thus, misguided? Throughout most of the 20th century, the mainstream intellectual view of human nature was that humans are benevolent blank slates, with immaterial souls distinct from their physical bodies. But, according to cognitive psychologist and public intellectual Steven Pinker, this view is mistaken. Keep reading to learn what the theory is and how it falls short.