The title isn’t entirely accurate. This doesn’t cover where good ideas comes from, but rather what things prove conducive to generating ideas. These are summarised in seven patterns:
The adjacent possible
Essentially, that adjacent thoughts and technologies can spur ideas.
Liquid networks
That well-connected groups generate more ideas, by sharing and spurring each other on.
The slow hunch
That is to say, an idea that builds over time as parts are added to it, like a snowball going down hill.
Serendipidty
Things falling into your lap.
Error
Profiting from mistakes, if you recognise them.
Exaptation
Using ideas or technologies in new ways.
Platforms
Having a system or workspace conducive to generating ideas, such as the Internet.
It was an interesting read, providing plenty of insights while trying to wrap some coherent structure around something that is so fleeting, but important.
It’s nice to see him try and break down the idea of the “lone genius” as well.
A very good read, and probably an essential one for those who work in industries or sectors that rely on ideas and developments.
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This was a Paperback copy of the book
Reviewed: 15th August 2018