Adam Grant's latest book challenges us to question our convictions and embrace
the art of rethinking.
In an age where certainty often trumps curiosity, organizational psychologist and Wharton professor Adam Grant has penned a timely and thought-provoking manifesto on the power of rethinking our beliefs. In "Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don't Know," Grant takes readers on a journey to understand how changing our minds can lead to growth, innovation, and personal transformation.
Grant begins by diagnosing our modern ailment: we have become a society of "preachers, prosecutors, and politicians." Preachers defend their beliefs, prosecutors attack opposing views and politicians lobby for approval. What we need, he argues, is to become more like "scientists"—embracing uncertainty, seeking new evidence, and updating our beliefs accordingly.
To illustrate this point, Grant shares a range of compelling stories, from the demise of BlackBerry to a heart-wrenching tale of a mother who lost her son due to incorrect medical advice. The unwillingness to rethink assumptions and beliefs in each case led to negative consequences.
But how can we learn to think like scientists? Grant offers three key strategies:
Cultivate a "beginner's mind": Embrace the curiosity and open-mindedness of a novice. This means asking questions, seeking out alternative perspectives, and being willing to change your stance.
Develop intellectual humility: Recognize the limits of your knowledge and appreciate the value of admitting when you're wrong. As Grant puts it, "Confidence is a measure of how much you believe in your current knowledge, whereas humility reflects the extent to which you're open to new insights."
Embrace the joy of being wrong: Instead of viewing errors as embarrassing failures, see them as opportunities to learn and grow. As the adage goes, "The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing."
Rethinking Our Beliefs
One of the most valuable lessons from "Think Again" is that rethinking our beliefs is not just an individual pursuit—it's also essential for fostering healthy relationships and strong organizations. Grant demonstrates how leaders can create a culture of rethinking by encouraging open debate, soliciting feedback, and rewarding those who change their minds.
In one memorable example, Grant recounts the story of Ray Dalio, the founder of Bridgewater Associates, who has built his company's success on a foundation of "radical transparency" and "radical truth." Bridgewater has become one of the most successful hedge funds in history by fostering a culture where employees are encouraged to challenge each other's ideas and embrace rethinking.
Engage Opposing Viewpoints
Grant also explores the importance of engaging with people who hold opposing views as an antidote to the echo chambers that often plague modern discourse. He shares the story of Megan Phelps-Roper, a former member of the extremist Westboro Baptist Church, who began questioning her beliefs after engaging in conversations with critics on Twitter. Phelps-Roper's journey underscores the power of respectful dialogue in fostering personal growth and rethinking.
But Grant also acknowledges the limits of rethinking, noting that not all opinions are worth entertaining. He cautions against engaging with those who peddle conspiracy theories or misinformation, as doing so can inadvertently legitimize their views. Instead, he suggests seeking "thoughtful critics" who are genuinely interested in engaging in constructive dialogue.
"Think Again" is also a timely exploration of the role of technology in shaping our beliefs. Grant touches on the dangers of social media algorithms that reinforce existing viewpoints and contribute to spreading misinformation. To counteract these forces, he suggests using technology to promote cognitive diversity, such as following people who challenge our thinking or using platforms like "Kialo" to engage in structured debates on complex issues.
One of the most compelling aspects of "Think Again" is Grant's focus on the psychological barriers that prevent us from rethinking our beliefs. He discusses the phenomenon of "cognitive dissonance"—the discomfort we feel when confronted with information that contradicts our deeply held beliefs. To overcome this discomfort, we often engage in "motivated reasoning," seeking out information that confirms our views while dismissing or ignoring contradictory evidence. Grant encourages us to recognize these biases and work to overcome them by actively seeking out disconfirming evidence and practicing empathy for those with different perspectives.
Combating Prejudice
In the book's final section, Grant examines how the art of rethinking can be applied to more significant societal issues, such as combating prejudice and addressing climate change. He argues that a willingness to question our assumptions and embrace new evidence is essential for fostering progress and creating a more just and sustainable world.
"Think Again" is a compelling and thought-provoking read that challenges us to reconsider our beliefs and embrace the transformative power of rethinking. By weaving together compelling stories, insightful research, and practical advice, Adam Grant has crafted a timely and essential guide for individuals, leaders, and organizations seeking to innovate and grow in an ever-changing world.
As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, "Think Again" serves as a timely reminder that the ability to change our minds is not a sign of weakness—it's a vital skill for thriving in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. By embracing the art of rethinking, we can learn to question our convictions, foster open and constructive dialogue, and ultimately build a more just, innovative, and resilient society.