Insights from ‘The Great Mental Models’ by Shane Parrish Flashcards
What are the three thinking methods in ‘What I.F.S.’ used to reveal blind spots?
Inversion, First principles thinking, and Second-order thinking
True or False: Inversion involves finding solutions by asking the opposite of your goal.
True
Fill in the blank: First principles thinking helps by breaking down problems to their fundamental ______.
components
Which mental model did Elon Musk use to create cost-effective rockets?
First principles thinking
Describe how the model of inversion could help in video production.
By asking, ‘How can I make a terrible video?’ and then inverting those bad ideas to improve quality.
True or False: First principles thinking involves questioning the reasons behind existing solutions.
True
How does second-order thinking prevent unintended consequences?
By considering potential reactions to decisions beyond the immediate outcome.
What was a second-order effect of the Treaty of Versailles’ harsh terms on Germany?
It fueled the rise of Fascism in Germany, eventually leading to World War II.
Explain the use of first principles thinking in the development of the fake meat industry.
Researchers broke down the taste of meat to amino acids and sugars, realizing they could replicate the flavor without animal products.
Why might second-order thinking be essential for a CEO deciding to end remote work?
It considers the potential loss of employees who dislike commuting, which could impact company culture.
True or False: Solving opposite problems is a waste of time in mental modeling.
False
Fill in the blank: ‘Avoiding stupidity is easier than seeking ______.’
brilliance
Which mental model could help in improving productivity by exploring counterproductive actions?
Inversion
How can first principles thinking challenge assumptions?
By examining the basic components of a problem, rather than assuming existing solutions are correct.
True or False: Second-order thinking only considers the direct outcome of a decision.
False
