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.

How to Not Jump to Conclusions: Use Your Imagination

A kid with several thought bubbles over his head illustrates how to not jump to conclusions by using your imagination

Do you find yourself making assumptions only to find out later that you were wrong? What if you approached problems more like Sherlock Holmes? In Mastermind, Maria Konnikova explores how to not jump to conclusions and instead think more creatively like the famous detective. She offers insights into why we tend to make hasty decisions and assumptions and provides strategies for engaging our imagination to solve problems more effectively. Read on to discover how you can cultivate Holmes-like thinking and approach challenges with a fresh perspective.

How to Adapt to Changes: 7 Life Altering Strategies

A drawing of a man standing between two signs. One reads "old life" and the other reads "new life" to signify adapting to life changes

Want to know how to adapt to changes in your life? How can you embrace a new way of being? Navigating life changes can be difficult, but Bruce Feiler, the author of Life Is in the Transitions, argues that you can make it easier by approaching it intentionally and proactively. He proposes seven strategies that can help you adapt to life changes. Keep reading for an in-depth look at each strategy.

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.

How to Take Control of Your Parenting Triggers

A dad holding his ears from a parenting trigger: his child screaming in his ear

Do you have parenting triggers? Do little things set you off easily? A regular mindfulness practice will not only help you become less reactive, but it will also help you understand why you respond so strongly in certain situations. Using mindfulness to increase self-awareness will help you better identify patterns and root issues that may be fueling your stress and making parenting harder.  Check out how to become more aware of your parenting triggers with a mindfulness exercise.

Establishing Mutual Empathy: 4 Steps Toward Seeing Eye to Eye

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Do you avoid difficult conversations? What if you could get on the same page with others more easily? Renée Evenson’s book Powerful Phrases for Dealing with Difficult People offers practical steps to establishing mutual empathy during conflict resolution. Her recommendations will help you navigate challenging discussions and find mutually beneficial solutions. Keep reading to discover how to build empathetic connections and avoid defensive reactions.

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.

Emotional Regulation for Parents: The Mindfulness Strategy

A mother holding a jar of angry emotions as emotional regulation for parents

Are you overwhelmed as a parent? What are key strategies for emotional regulation for parents? It can be hard to get your point across to your kids when you’re angry and stressed. No matter how hard the job can be, you need to regulate your own emotions to set an example for your children. Here’s how parents can use mindfulness to regulate themselves in times of stress.

Sherlock Holmes: Deduction Leads to a Logical Explanation

Sherlock Holmes's deduction skills are at work while he looks thoughtfully while wearing a Victorian-era suit and hat

How does Sherlock Holmes always solve the case? What can we learn from his legendary deduction skills? In Mastermind, Maria Konnikova explores the art of Sherlock Holmes’s deduction process. She reveals how his methods can improve our everyday decision-making and problem-solving abilities. Konnikova offers practical strategies to enhance logical thinking and avoid common mental pitfalls. Read on to enter the world of Holmes and unleash your inner detective.

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.