Robert Sapolsky Says Determinism—Not Free Will—Is Our Reality

Dominoes in a row with the first ones starting to fall, depicting the domino effect and Robert Sapolsky's determinism theory

How well do you understand the concept of free will? Do you believe that your choices are truly your own? In his book Determined, Robert Sapolsky explores the theory of determinism and its implications for human behavior. He lays out arguments against free will and shares how scientific advancements support his views on determinism. Keep reading to discover how Robert Sapolsky’s determinism theory challenges our understanding of personal choice and responsibility.

What Makes a Social Movement Successful? (Eric Hoffer)

a huge group of people planting a red flag on the top of a mountain illustrates what makes a social movement successful

What makes a social movement successful? What factors contribute to its growth and longevity? Eric Hoffer’s book The True Believer explores the evolution of mass movements and the different roles that emerge as the movement grows. He explores what makes a social movement successful, examining the stages from inception to institution-building. Read on to discover how visionaries, loyal followers, and implementers shape the trajectory of social movements and understand the factors that help them succeed.

4 Theories of Free Will Based on Science (+ Counterarguments)

A thinking young man with a thought bubble that says "Free Will?" inside of it illustrates theories of free will

Are your choices truly your own? Does science prove that free will is just an illusion? In his book Determined, Robert Sapolsky explores various theories of free will and presents compelling counterarguments. He addresses four scientific perspectives on free will, including compatibilism, chaoticism, emergent complexity, and quantum indeterminacy. Prepare to challenge your beliefs about decision-making and human behavior as we examine these thought-provoking theories.

Why Do People Join Social Movements? 3 Reasons They Appeal

a drawing of people standing in a circle holding hands illustrates the question "Why do people join social movements?"

Why do people join social movements? What drives individuals to become part of something bigger than themselves? In The True Believer, Eric Hoffer explores the psychology behind mass movements. He argues that these groups fulfill fundamental human needs for identity, community, and purpose. Keep reading to learn about three reasons people are drawn to mass movements.

What if There’s No Free Will? 3 Implications if It’s True

People walking in a bustling city scene illustrate life without free will

What would life be like there’s no free will? How would society function if we accepted that our actions are predetermined? In his book Determined, Robert Sapolsky explores the concept of life without free will and its implications for society. He argues that embracing determinism could lead to a fairer and kinder world, despite the challenges it presents to our traditional notions of praise, reward, blame, and personal responsibility. Read on to learn Sapolsky’s perspective on human behavior.

What Is a True Believer? 4 Types Drawn to Mass Movements

four people of various ages standing next to each other and facing the camera illustrate what a true believer is

What is a true believer? What types of people are most susceptible to joining mass movements? In his book The True Believer, Eric Hoffer explores the psychology behind mass movements and their followers. He identifies several groups of people who are particularly drawn to these causes, including the marginalized, the unfulfilled, the guilt-ridden, and the self-interested. Read more to dive deeper into Hoffer’s insightful analysis of what makes a true believer.

How to Start a Social Movement: 2 Forces You Must Leverage

a black and white drawing of people from the back walking in the same direction illustrates what causes mass movements

What drives people to join social movements? What makes individuals willing to sacrifice everything for a cause? In The True Believer, Eric Hoffer explores what causes mass social movements to start and gain momentum. He examines the psychological factors that lead people to dedicate themselves to a collective cause, often at great personal cost. Keep reading to learn how to start a social movement by understanding the two powerful forces behind them.

Why Adults With Childlike Imaginations Are More Creative

A woman in fantasy clothes in an enchanted forest expressing her childlike imagination

Why is it beneficial to have a childlike imagination? How can adults participate in the act of “play”? In their book Wired to Create, Scott Barry Kaufman and Carolyn Gregoire explain that adults with childlike imaginations are more likely to be creative. In many cases, this is a mindset that’s developed during childhood and evolves. Here’s a look at this important characteristic of creativity.

Kathryn Schulz’s Being Wrong: Book Overview & Takeaways

a young man with dark hair and a beard and mustache reading a book in an atrium of a building

Do you laugh at your mistakes? Even more important, do you leverage your mistakes? Kathryn Schulz’s book Being Wrong encourages readers to view errors as opportunities for growth rather than sources of shame. The book examines how perceptions of reality become distorted and offers strategies for gracefully accepting your fallibility. Continue reading for an overview of this book that will help you enjoy, as Schulz puts it, “adventures in the margin of error.”

What Exactly Is Lucid Dreaming? Dr. Stephen LaBerge Explains

A girl in bed having a lucid dream of herself flying in the sky

What exactly is lucid dreaming? What’s the difference between normal dreams and lucid dreams? Are there any benefits to learning how to lucid dream? Through lucid dreaming, the ordinary boundaries of reality dissolve, opening up a realm where you can indulge your fantasies, enhance your mental flexibility, learn new skills, and more. A lucid dream differs from a normal dream in that you realize you’re dreaming and can influence the dream. Here’s a more in-depth overview of what lucid dreaming is.