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How to Become Better at First Principles Thinking (And Be a Great Problem Solver)
It boils down to asking questions like a child
First principle thinking is dying.
Selection bias, in all its forms, is stopping us from understanding the basic truths. From thrilling stories of success to evidence that proves our point, we act like we’ve found a diamond in a coal mine.
Unfortunately, today’s hacks are the subprime bonds that sunk Bear Sterns.
Somehow, we have come to believe that knowledge is better than wisdom. Thinking slowly and questioning to understand is seen as bad. Hacks have become all the rage; such is our desire to be quick rather than to be right.
But we are missing a trick.
Questions underpin our understanding. Questions give us more than answers; they provide insight, wisdom, and, when you ask enough of them, the truth as well. Truths, which when completely understood, give us the insight to solve problems and make progress.
Revisit your childhood, or if you’re lucky enough to be a parent, observe your kids, and you’ll find questions. Lots of them. Each one prodding for more information, more insight, and more understanding.
