Evicted by Matthew Desmond: Book Overview and Exercises

A mother and two children stand outside a house that has an "Evicted" sign on the door

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.

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.

Evictions in the US Rise Because There Is No Solidarity Anymore

A group of people standing in front of an apartment complex opposing evictions in the US

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.

The Advantages of Ethical Businesses & Their Effect on the World

A group of employees presenting a PowerPoint about the advantages of ethical businesses to managers.

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.

How Salesforce Is Getting Ready for the Fifth Industrial Revolution

An advanced futuristic city during the Fifth Industrial Revolution that's full of greenery and trees

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.

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.

Plato’s Republic: Why Philosopher-Kings Are the Ideal Rulers

An artistic rendering of an ancient Greek ruler illustrates Plato’s Republic philosopher-kings

What kind of a person should lead a society? What makes someone an ideal ruler? In Plato’s Republic, philosopher-kings are presented as the type of people who are best suited to rule over others. He uses three powerful (and well-known) metaphors to illustrate his point. Keep reading to discover why wisdom might be the ultimate leadership quality.

Plato: An Oligarchy Is a Society Structured Around Wealth

A wealthy man in ancient Greece represents Plato's description of an oligarchy

How does wealth impact society? What are the consequences of a system where money equals power? In The Republic, Plato explores different societal structures through the character of Socrates. According to Plato, an oligarchy is as a system where wealth determines political power. This concept is part of a larger discussion on the decline of ideal societies. Keep reading to discover why Plato believed oligarchies fall short and how they shape both society and individuals.

Salesforce’s Philanthropy: A Better World Through Business

A blue Salesforce sign

How does Salesforce give back to the world? Why is Salesforce so involved in American politics? Marc Benioff considers society and the global environment two of Salesforce’s chief stakeholders. A couple of ways he addresses social and environmental problems are through a philanthropic program and campaigning for political change to promote minorities’ rights. Discover more about Salesforce’s philanthropy efforts.