3 - Live for the Questions Swap Caution for Curiosity and the Deeper Dig Flashcards
What do pivot points represent in our lives?
Openings for discovery and new possibility
These moments arise when a new question emerges, prompting exploration.
Which animals are known for their regenerative abilities?
- Salamanders
- Starfish
- Octopi
- Zebrafish
These animals can regrow limbs or tails, inspiring research into human regeneration.
What was the primary quest of the author and their mentor regarding regeneration?
To explore if humans can trigger the same regenerative response as certain animals
This led to potential treatments for conditions like multiple sclerosis.
What is the significance of asking questions in the innovation process?
It emphasizes the need for quality questions to define and solve problems
The author notes that many successes and failures stem from the questions asked.
What was the major oversight in the author’s stem cell therapy project?
The team did not consider how the treatment would reach patients
This led to a dead-end when seeking funding.
What are the various problems to investigate in the exploratory process?
- Clinical problem
- Science problem
- Patent problem
- Manufacturing problem
- Regulatory problem
- Practical use problem
- Investment problem
- Go-to-market problem
These facets must be explored to develop effective solutions.
What should researchers question in their processes?
- Their own questions
- Assumptions
- Past decisions
This helps uncover outdated beliefs and assumptions that limit thinking.
What did the author learn from analyzing questions asked at lectures?
To identify patterns in high-yield questions that drill down into important issues
This process improved the author’s ability to ask effective questions.
What is a key characteristic of high-yield questions?
They illuminate important assumptions made without substantial support
This helps validate methodologies before applying them.
What can flawed or distorted conclusions in scientific research lead to?
Misinterpretation of results and potentially incorrect applications
For example, not including control groups can skew conclusions.
What distinguishes interesting results from results that matter?
Interesting results show differences, while results that matter have significant implications for patients or applications
Researchers aim for results that can lead to meaningful impact.
What is the importance of self-inquiry?
It helps explore personal values and align actions with those values
This can lead to deeper understanding and fulfillment in life.
How can questioning historical assumptions benefit research?
It can reveal outdated beliefs that may limit current understanding and progress
The author cites a case where an assumption about stem cells was proven incorrect.
What metaphor is used to describe the power of questions?
Questions are like excavation equipment, tools for action
They can uncover truths and facilitate exploration.
What is the role of curiosity in inquiry?
It ignites inquiry and discovery
Curiosity leads to deeper questions and insights.
What can limit a person’s life according to James Clear?
Not questioning things can limit life to others’ imaginations
It emphasizes the importance of personal dreams and aspirations.
What is the goal of the author’s lab regarding questions?
To create an environment that encourages asking better questions
This approach aims to exceed existing measures of success.
What does James Clear suggest is better than being limited by other people’s dreams?
Being limited by what you can dream for yourself
Clear emphasizes the importance of personal imagination and questioning.
What key concept did Phillip Sharp contribute to the field of biology?
Discovery of split genes and RNA splicing
This discovery was crucial for understanding messenger RNA (mRNA) biology.
What was the impact of Sharp’s discovery of RNA splicing?
Paved the way for the development of mRNA vaccines against Covid
This discovery catalyzed new medical research on cancer and other diseases.
How does curiosity relate to inquiry and discovery according to the text?
Curiosity ignites inquiry and discovery
It is described as a cognitive state and is wired into the brain’s thought processes.
What do neuroscience and education research suggest about curiosity?
It stimulates the brain for deep learning and discovery
Curiosity is linked to pleasure, reward, and memory centers in the brain.
True or False: Asking questions can make us feel self-conscious and hesitant.
True
Negative reactions can limit free and open discussion.
What does May-Britt Moser believe about ‘stupid’ questions?
They can turn out to be the most interesting ones
All questions have value in a scientific setting.
What is the significance of asking high-yield questions in a lab setting?
It leads to innovative solutions
This concept can also be applied to personal and community challenges.
What public health issue did Vivek Murthy address as surgeon general?
The escalating opioid addiction crisis
He emphasized community compassion and motivation in addressing the issue.
What question did Vivek Murthy ask during his listening tour?
How can I help?
This question led to significant public health insights.
Fill in the blank: Curiosity is often described as a strong desire to learn or _______.
know something
What is the common denominator in health, according to Vivek Murthy?
Human connection
He sees it as essential for healing.
What question does Gerhard Gründer pose about living?
How do we want to live?
This question encourages reflection on personal values and future decisions.
What does James Clear suggest we need to be clear about in life?
What we are optimizing for
Understanding personal goals and outcomes is crucial.
What narrative aspects does Lisa Sasaki emphasize regarding history?
Who gets to record history, who remembers it, and who shares it
These factors influence how history is understood and interpreted.
What is a key question regarding systemic inequities?
Who is telling our history?
Acknowledging the storytellers is essential for understanding historical narratives.
What does the text suggest about the relationship between questions and personal insights?
Questions can kindle change and lead to personal insights
They help define problems and identify what is important to us.
True or False: Curiosity can be emotionally arousing and lead to anxiety.
True
Self-consciousness can squelch curiosity and limit inquiry.
What is the significance of questioning who tells our history?
It changes the information people receive and acknowledges the need to question perspectives and interpretations.
What is the call to action regarding historic and systemic inequities?
To question responsibility for the past and consider our roles in shaping the future.
What important question can individuals ask about their actions?
What am I doing or what have I done that has propagated inequities or negativity?
What does Henry David Thoreau’s quote suggest?
It invites curiosity and questions, encouraging empathy and understanding of others’ experiences.
How does Robert Langer define success in life compared to being a student?
In life, you’re judged by how good your questions are, rather than how well you answer questions.
What does the simple question ‘Why not?’ help us to do?
It helps to challenge preferences and inclinations that may be limiting.
What are the components of the habit loop described by Charles Duhigg?
Cue, routine, reward.
What did the author realize when faced with a speaking engagement opportunity?
That old habits of avoidance can be challenged by questioning them.
What does the author mean by ‘interrupt the autopilot of inclination’?
To question existing patterns and make conscious choices that align with intentions.
What is the goal of recognizing patterns in thoughts, choices, and actions?
To see clearly where inclinations are taking you and act with intention.
What are some ways to cultivate an inquiring mind?
- Surround yourself with energetic, question-asking people
- Practice shaping and asking better questions
- Use current events as cues for reflection
Why are yes-or-no questions less effective than how or why questions?
They do not generate discussion and exploration of ideas.
What can small talk facilitate between two people?
It opens up energy channels and fosters connections.
How can questions help maintain focus during conversations?
They show interest and deepen relationships by engaging others more fully.
What is the purpose of using questions in current events or personal experiences?
To reflect on and explore significant, larger questions.
