Problem Solving Archives | Page 2 of 3

Cobra Effects: Why the Road to Hell Is Paved With Bad Incentives

A reflection on Cobra Effects and how fateful interventions and perverse incentives can lead to unintended negative consequences.

Explore a selection of my reading list with insightful books on critical thinking, decision-making, philosophy, storytelling and more.

An exploration of the Law of Unintended Consequences, an adage about undesirable or unexpected side-effects of our life’s decisions.

A reflection on Chesterton’s Fence, a cautioning principle about reformers who fail to grasp the original purpose of an institution or law.

A reflection on Atwood’s Duck, a cunning manoeuvre to keep a manager from making unnecessary changes to a project. But it’s not without risk.

An exploration of the Four Stages of Competence, a learning model that details how we progress from mindless ignorance to effortless mastery.

A reflection on St George in Retirement Syndrome, a sneaky condition that can make us addicted to solving increasingly trivial problems.

A deep dive into five inspiring quotes by Naval Ravikant. How does his practical philosophy translate to lasting change?

A collection of 25 interesting concepts on critical thinking, human nature and more. Make better sense of the world one idea at a time.

A comprehensive guide on test-taking strategies. Succeed in assessments by seeing the world through your teacher’s eyes.

An exploration of The Mind Collection Model, my personal interpretation of a mental model designed to help us navigate the known unknowns.

A reflection on paradoxical examples of odd reasoning. What can we learn from the Crocodile Paradox and is Schrödinger’s Cat dead or alive?

A reflection on mental shortcuts and how their misapplication can inhibit problem-solving or lead to poor decision-making.

A collection of the most interesting ideas on critical thinking, philosophy and storytelling to help you make better sense of the world.

A reflection on the OODA Loop, a decision-making tool designed to improve our situational awareness in high-stakes situations.