3 Mental Representations Our Brains Use (Steven Pinker)

A man imagining a green apple (in a thought bubble over his head) illustrates mental representations

How do our brains represent the world around us? How accurate are these mental representations? In The Blank Slate, Steven Pinker argues that the mainstream view of human nature is false. Then, he seeks to replace it by showing that science establishes an alternative conception of human nature. The first component of the scientific view of human nature is accurate mental representations. Read more to understand why Pinker believes our brains have evolved to use categories, languages, and images to accurately represent the world.

Why Is AI Scary? 3 Reasons to Sound the Alarm (Mo Gawdat)

Shadowy silhouettes of humans behind a sophisticated and ominous AI robot raises the question, "Why is AI scary?"

Why is AI scary? Should it be? Do you know how it might impact the world and your life? In Scary Smart, author Mo Gawdat explores the potential outcomes of superintelligent AI. He discusses three main problems we may face: misuse by bad actors, unintended consequences from mistakes, and a shift in how we value human contributions. Read on to discover Gawdat’s insights and learn why AI’s rapid advancement is both exciting and concerning.

Are Male and Female Brains Different? Steven Pinker Weighs In

An artistic depiction of a male brain and a female brain illustrate the question, Are male and female brains different?

Are male and female brains different? How does this impact our understanding of gender roles in society? In The Blank Slate, Steven Pinker explores the scientific view of human nature and its implications for gender differences. He argues that genetics play a role in shaping cognitive disparities between men and women, challenging the idea that socialization alone determines these differences. Keep reading for Pinker’s thought-provoking analysis, and discover how science sheds light on an age-old question.

Can AI Be Controlled or Contained? 3 Reasons It’s Too Late

A sophisticated AI robot breaking through a wall raises the question, "Can AI be controlled?"

Are you worried about the future of AI? Have you ever wondered if we could simply stop its development? Can AI be controlled or contained? In Scary Smart, author Mo Gawdat explores why halting AI’s progress is no longer possible. He explains that we’ve reached a point of no return, where superintelligent AI will become an independent, thinking entity beyond our control. Keep reading to discover the three reasons why AI can’t be contained or controlled.

Mo Gawdat’s Approach to AI: 3 Ways to Put AI on a Positive Path

A human mother teaching an AI robot child illustrates Mo Gawdat's approach to AI

Can we shape AI’s understanding of human values? What if we could guide artificial intelligence to make the world a better place? Mo Gawdat’s book Scary Smart offers a hope-filled approach to AI development. He suggests treating AI like a child we need to nurture and teach. The author outlines three key areas we should focus on to ensure AI aligns with human values. Read on to discover how you can play a role in shaping the future of AI—and the world.

Is Personality Inherited? Steven Pinker on Nature vs. Nurture

A mother and toddler depict the question of whether personality is inherited and Steven Pinker's nature vs. nurture argument

Is personality inherited? How much of who you are comes from your genes versus your upbringing? Steven Pinker’s nature vs. nurture argument shows up in his book The Blank Slate. He explores the scientific evidence behind personality inheritance. Pinker argues that our core traits are largely genetic, with upbringing playing a minimal role. Continue reading to understand Pinker’s argument, and see whether you believe the debate is settled.

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.

Salesforce’s Advancement in Business (From Trailblazer)

A man working on a computer screen that reads "AI" as part of an initiative to push advancement in business

What are the different types of advancements in business? How does Salesforce use new technology to improve decision-making? To continue meeting customers’ ever-evolving needs, Marc Benioff says Salesforce is dedicated to making technological and social advancements. These advancements include incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace and providing educational opportunities. Continue reading to learn about Salesforce’s social and technological advancements.

A Thousand Brains: A New Theory of Intelligence (Overview)

A bearded grey-haired middle-aged man thoughtfully reading a book in a room with large windows

Do you know how your brain really works? What if understanding our own intelligence could revolutionize artificial intelligence? In A Thousand Brains: A New Theory of Intelligence, neuroscientist Jeff Hawkins presents a groundbreaking theory of human cognition. He explores how the brain’s neocortex creates mental models and makes predictions. This new framework offers insights into both human intelligence and potential advancements in AI. Read on to discover how your brain’s “mini-brains” work together to create your understanding of the world.

Does Quantum Indeterminacy Make Free Will Possible?

A person holding a pair of dice in their hand illustrates quantum indeterminacy and free will

Is free will real or just an illusion? Could quantum mechanics hold the key to understanding our ability to make choices? In his book Determined, Robert Sapolsky picks apart arguments in favor of free will. He even dives into the fascinating world of subatomic particles and their potential impact on human decision-making, as some people believe there’s a connection between quantum indeterminacy and free will. Read more to understand the issue and Sapolsky’s arguments.