What if we could reimagine how we think?
That’s the central question Framers by Kenneth Cukier, Viktor Mayer-Schönberger, and Francis de Véricourt seeks to explore. The book is already making me pause, reflect, and look at the world differently—and I haven’t even finished it yet.
This isn't just a book about abstract theories. It's about mental models—the cognitive frames that shape how we perceive reality, solve problems, and make decisions. From rethinking societal norms (#MeToo Movement) to navigating uncharted territory (Apollo 11's moon landing), the authors show how framing enables us to imagine what doesn’t yet exist and make it real.
One of the standout insights for me is how frames empower us:
"Frames are not imagination or creativity, but they enable both."
The authors explore this beautifully, connecting fields as diverse as public health (Ebola and COVID-19 responses), business innovation (Nintendo's Blue Ocean Strategy), and physics (Higgs boson predictions). Frames aren't just tools—they are superpowers that allow us to see beyond the obvious, shape decisions, and ultimately, envision better futures.
I’m also struck by how framing relates to my own work in software engineering. The book's discussion of mental models reminds me of design and architectural patterns—the "language" of software solutions. Just as frames shape our cognitive space, design patterns structure our technical decisions, both leaving room for creativity while maintaining constraints.
This book isn’t a skim-and-shelve read. It’s one to savor and revisit. The writing invites you to think deeply—whether about the self-fulfilling feedback loops of frames, their role in innovation, or the responsibility we hold in choosing the right frame for each situation. Even though I’m only partway through, it’s already clear: this is a must-read for anyone who wants to better understand the human advantage in an era of technology and turmoil.
If you’re intrigued by how causality, counterfactuals, and constraints shape not just our decisions but our world, I can’t recommend Framers highly enough. I’ll share more reflections once I finish, but for now, I hope this sparks curiosity—and perhaps a reframe of your own thinking.
Let’s explore this together. What frames are shaping your world today?
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