The Idea

Contributed by @philhagspiel |  Edited and curated by @philhagspiel

To think holistically, we need to consider not only the effects of our actions but also the effects of these effects.

Taking Action

Mental Models

A highly interconnected world makes ripple effects appear everywhere. While thinking of potential consequences of our actions is important, very often, these consequences produce further consequences we should account for as good as possible.

Whether it's ecology, business, politics or our personal interactions with other people — comprehensive thinking requires to anticipate what our actions might create not only as an immediate result but as a result of these results.

"When we try to pick out anything by itself, we find it hitched to everything else in the Universe."

— John Muir

"Never seize on the first available option, no matter how good it seems, before you’ve asked questions and explored."

— Ray Dalio

Explore

➞ Read this blog post for a thorough introduction to higher order thinking.

➞ For a slightly more technical take on it, check out this essay.

Resources

If this idea resonates with you, some of these resources might add value to your life.