What Is Normalcy Bias? Why We Underestimate Danger

A relaxed man who is not frightened by a tiger illustrates what normalcy bias is

What happens in our minds when we face threats? What is normalcy bias, and how might it endanger us? In You Are Not So Smart, David McRaney explores what normalcy bias is and how this psychological phenomenon affects our response to dangerous situations. This mental quirk leads us to downplay threats and maintain a false sense of security, even when faced with clear warning signs. Keep reading to discover practical ways to overcome this survival-hampering mindset and better protect yourself in threatening situations.

What Was the Sykes-Picot Agreement? David Fromkin Explains

A black-and-white close-up image of two men shaking hands illustrates the question, "What was the Sykes-Picot Agreement?"

What was the Sykes-Picot Agreement, and how does it continue to shape Middle Eastern politics today? Why do some groups view this century-old agreement as a symbol of Western imperialism? The 1916 secret agreement between Britain and France carved up the Ottoman Empire’s territories, creating new nations and spheres of influence that would transform the Middle East. This deal continues to influence regional conflicts and debates about borders, independence, and Western intervention. Read on to discover how this controversial agreement’s legacy extends far beyond its original scope.

Mindbody Syndrome Treatment: How to Overcome TMS and More

A doctor talking about mind body syndrome treatment to a patient in a hospital bed

What’s the treatment for mindbody syndromes? How is TMS treated with psychological help? Dr. John E. Sarno says that his mindbody syndrome treatment focuses on helping patients become aware of repressed feelings and process them in a healthy way. He then outlines his specific approach to treating TMS as well as other disorders (such as fibromyalgia) that, according to Sarno, may be psychosomatic.  Discover how patients can overcome their mindbody syndromes.

Daniel Dennett: Memes Are Units of Cultural Transmission

A vintage image of a man singing the blues in a club illustrates cultural memes and memetic evolution

What drives the evolution of human culture? How do ideas spread and transform across generations? According to Daniel Dennett, memes are the cultural equivalent of genes. Like genes in biological evolution, memes are units of culture that replicate, mutate, and compete for survival in the realm of human ideas and behaviors. Continue reading to explore how memetic evolution shapes our societies, from the evolution of music genres to the development of scientific knowledge.

How to Convince Customers in Sales and Close the Deal

A businessman standing behind a counter, showing how to convince customer in sales.

What do you do when a customer tells you “no?” What do you do when they tell you “yes?” When you know you’ve engaged a potential client in a conversation, the next step is to gauge their interest in your services. To do this, once your conversation reveals what your client’s true goal is and what they need to achieve it, ask them if they need help.  Keep reading to learn how to convince customers in sales.

How to Prevent Technology Addiction: Tips for Adults & Kids

A phone being thrown in the trash as a way to prevent technology addiction

Do you feel like you rely on your phone or computer too much? What does a healthy relationship with technology look like? Since technology can be so addictive, you might be tempted to avoid it. But, for most people, this is an impractical solution. Countering technology addiction is a matter of learning how to live with it in a healthier way. Here are Adam Alter’s three methods that will help anyone learn how to prevent technology addiction.

What Makes an Ad Effective: 3 Key Elements (David Ogilvy)

Female model in a fashion advertisement on a bus stop that says "That's the ticket"

What makes an ad truly stand out from the crowd? How can you create advertisements that not only capture attention but also result in sales? David Ogilvy, one of advertising’s greatest minds, shares his expertise on what makes an ad effective in his book Confessions of an Advertising Man. His time-tested principles cover everything from crafting compelling headlines to choosing the right imagery. Keep reading to discover the essential elements that transform ordinary advertisements into powerful sales machines.

AIDA Copywriting: Attention, Interest, Desire, Action

A woman with dark hair, glasses, a laptop, and papers uses the AIDA copywriting model: Attention, Interest, Desire, Action

Why does marketing copy often fail to convert readers into customers? What makes some sales messages more effective than others? AIDA copywriting has been a cornerstone of successful marketing for over a century. This time-tested approach breaks down the sales process into four crucial steps focused on Attention, Interest, Desire, and Action. Each step serves as a building block toward converting casual readers into eager buyers. Read more to discover how to craft compelling marketing messages that guide your readers naturally toward making a purchase.

How Teach Your Child That It’s Okay to Make Mistakes

A young child in a kitchen accidently pouring milk onto a counter, learning that it's okay to make mistakes

Does your child know that it’s okay to make mistakes? Do you try to fix your child’s mistakes for them? In her book 13 Things Mentally Strong Parents Don’t Do, Amy Morin stresses the importance of not fixing your child’s mistakes for them. Children need to learn that there are consequences to their actions, otherwise they’ll keep making the same mistakes. Here’s how to help your child develop resilience.

How Self-Justification Harms Your Self-Perception & Growth

A confident and serious young man looking at himself in an oval mirror with a wood frame illustrates self-justification

Why do we create false explanations for our feelings and behaviors? What makes us cling to these made-up reasons even when they don’t serve us well? In You Are Not So Smart, David McRaney explores the fascinating phenomenon of self-justification and its impact on our daily lives. He reveals how we unconsciously fabricate explanations for everything, from our food preferences to our mood swings. Keep reading to discover why these mental shortcuts might hold you back from authentic self-discovery and personal growth.