Opening Thoughts #
I often wonder what truly distinguishes how we think; is problem-solving merely instinctual? Are there discernible patterns or formulated ways of thinking that we can adopt to enhance our cognitive abilities? One avenue for exploration seems to be the realm of thinking tools, such as 'frameworks' or 'mental models.' However, despite their lauded status in analytical fields, the practical application of these tools often proves elusive.
The Challenge of Adopting Another’s Way of Thinking #
My initial attempts to understand these frameworks often led me to gather knowledge from various resources, typically categorized by abstract academic disciplines. But I soon encountered a significant hurdle: this knowledge frequently became 'inert,' disconnected from my own established knowledge graph. This made me pause and question: Does this difficulty stem from the inherent nature of the frameworks themselves, or from my method of acquiring them – a method that seems detached from the real-world contexts where I aim to apply them?
Reflecting on my own cognitive processes, I asked: Could the way our brains function offer insights into effective thinking? Human cognition heavily relies on 'relational memory' – the ability to link pieces of information rather than simply memorizing them sequentially. Moreover, our brains appear remarkably adept at 'situational categorization' – grouping seemingly disparate ideas together based on their relevance to a specific goal or problem. Could this inherent preference for context-dependent association explain why learning frameworks through abstract subjects often falls short?
These insights suggest a potentially more promising approach in my learning journey. Instead of passively absorbing frameworks, perhaps the key lies in actively engaging with them in a two-step process. Firstly, cultivating 'awareness' – recognizing the underlying conceptual structures within the information presented around me. Secondly, actively collecting and organizing these conceptual tools not according to their domain of origin, but according to the specific types of situations or questions where I might apply them – essentially 'tagging' them with context. For instance, linking Aristotle’s theories not just to 'Ethics' but also to the question 'How should one act appropriately?' Could this be the way to create a truly useful and contextualized 'conceptual toolkit'?
This line of inquiry clearly necessitates external 'cognitive artifacts,' such as note-taking systems, to manage the evolving network of knowledge. And I realize, my ultimate goal is to develop a more structured and context-sensitive 'mode of inquiry' – a way of thinking – within myself. This involves refining my ability to recognize patterns, select appropriate tools, and even synthesize my own frameworks. Perhaps, cultivating these deliberate practices, focusing on the thoughtful application of knowledge within specific contexts, is the path to better understanding what differentiates thinking and how to learn effective ways of thought. How can I consciously begin to apply this contextual approach to my own areas of interest? …