The World's Best Book Summaries
Why is there an eviction crisis in the United States? How much is a household supposed to pay in rent? Matthew Desmond, the author of Evicted, says that there are two major causes of the eviction crisis: stagnant wages and renters who don’t stand up for each other. These two issues combined are resulting in eviction rates higher than during the Great Depression. Here’s a closer look at the two causes of the rising eviction rates.
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? 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.
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.
Why are eviction rates rising in the United States? Why is the poverty-eviction cycle so hard to break? Can anything be done to help the situation? Imagine living with the knowledge that you could lose your home at any time, for any reason. In Evicted, sociologist Matthew Desmond explains that millions of Americans live every day under the threat of eviction, and it takes a heavy toll on them both psychologically and financially. Keep reading for our brief overview of Desmond’s book Evicted.
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.
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.
What does community have to do with evictions? How has renter solidarity changed since the Great Depression? Matthew Desmond, sociologist and the author of Evicted, says that a primary reason why evictions in the US are rising is that renters don’t stand up for each other anymore. Renters are allowing predatory landlords to walk all over them in fear of losing housing. Here’s a look at how renter solidarity has changed.
What are the advantages of an ethical business? What type of business model does Salesforce follow? According to Marc Benioff, the best approach to business is to place moral principles at the forefront of organizational decision-making, which is a model called principled business. In this model, profit isn’t the sole driving force; instead, it’s balanced with a commitment to social responsibility, environmental sustainability, and internal fairness and equity. Let’s look at how ethical businesses drive success, using examples from Benioff’s company Salesforce.
What will the Fifth Industrial Revolution look like? How are principled businesses like Salesforce preparing for the Fifth Industrial Revolution? Marc Benioff believes that humanity is on the cusp of the Fifth Industrial Revolution. This is an era where moral responsibility will be built into technological innovation as the industry’s underlying purpose and guiding ethos. Take a look at how Salesforce is getting ahead of the Fifth Industrial Revolution.