Review of Think Again by Adam Grant: The Power of Rethinking in a Complex World

In Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know, Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist and professor at Wharton, delves into the crucial skill of rethinking—one that is often overlooked in a world that values certainty and conviction. Grant argues that the ability to think flexibly, challenge our assumptions, and embrace doubt can lead to growth, innovation, and even better relationships. Through fascinating anecdotes, data-driven insights, and actionable advice, Think Again provides a compelling argument for the power of intellectual humility and the value of learning to “think again.”

Summary and Main Concepts

At the core of Think Again lies a simple but profound idea: the world is ever-evolving, and so too should our minds. In an era of rapid change, holding onto outdated beliefs and refusing to reconsider our views can be detrimental not only to personal growth but to society as a whole. Grant divides the book into three main parts, each focusing on a different dimension of rethinking.

1. Individual Rethinking
   The first section addresses how individuals can train themselves to rethink. Grant introduces the concept of the “scientist mindset,” where we treat our beliefs like hypotheses that can be tested and revised. Instead of clinging to opinions as though they’re fixed, he encourages us to stay curious, question our knowledge, and remain open to being wrong. Through this mindset, we can avoid falling into the traps of “preacher,” “prosecutor,” and “politician” thinking, where we try to convince ourselves or others without questioning our own assumptions.
2. Interpersonal Rethinking
   In this section, Grant examines how rethinking can improve our interactions with others. He explores the idea of “motivational interviewing,” a technique used in therapy that involves asking open-ended questions and encouraging people to reflect on their own beliefs rather than imposing our own views. By applying this approach, we can foster more productive conversations and help others arrive at their own conclusions, making them more open to change.
3. Collective Rethinking
   The final part of the book is dedicated to how rethinking can benefit groups, organizations, and society. Grant emphasizes the importance of creating cultures where rethinking is encouraged and dissenting opinions are valued. He illustrates how organizations that welcome constructive criticism and remain flexible in their strategies are more resilient and innovative in the long run. One of the book’s standout examples is the story of BlackBerry, a company that once dominated the smartphone industry but failed to adapt due to rigid thinking at the executive level. The cautionary tale serves as a reminder that clinging to outdated models can be a downfall.

Key Takeaways

Grant’s advice is both practical and inspiring, touching on areas from self-improvement to corporate strategy. Here are a few key takeaways that stand out:

• Embrace the “Joy of Being Wrong”
  Grant encourages readers to take pleasure in the discovery that they might be mistaken. This reorientation away from the fear of error and toward curiosity about the unknown can lead to greater learning and growth.
• Think Like a Scientist, Not Like a Preacher, Prosecutor, or Politician
  Adopting the scientist mindset is about holding beliefs lightly, ready to be disproven if the evidence supports it. This approach not only fosters adaptability but also enables people to engage more thoughtfully with opposing views.
• Use Motivational Interviewing
  Instead of trying to convince others through forceful arguments, Grant suggests employing open-ended questions to encourage reflection. By listening carefully, we can promote dialogue that respects differing viewpoints and may ultimately lead to change.
• Create a Culture of Rethinking
  In organizations, Grant underscores the importance of psychological safety—the freedom to express opinions without fear of retribution. This fosters an environment where rethinking can thrive, enabling teams to innovate and adjust to new challenges.

Strengths of Think Again

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its accessibility. Grant’s writing style is engaging, filled with stories from diverse fields, including sports, business, and academia, which make complex psychological concepts digestible and relatable. The book is filled with real-life examples that illustrate both the benefits of rethinking and the pitfalls of sticking to outdated beliefs.

Grant’s background in organizational psychology brings an evidence-based approach to his arguments, enhancing the book’s credibility. He cites research studies and psychological principles to back up his ideas, making the content both informative and compelling.

Potential Criticisms

While Think Again is well-received by many, some readers might find that Grant’s message is somewhat repetitive, especially as he reinforces the need to rethink in each section. For readers well-versed in psychology or business, the ideas may feel familiar, given that they echo concepts like cognitive flexibility, growth mindset, and open-mindedness. However, for most readers, the repetition serves to reinforce the practicality of his advice.

Additionally, the focus on rethinking could come across as overly idealistic in certain real-world contexts where time constraints or external pressures demand rapid, decisive action. Grant touches on these limitations but doesn’t fully address how rethinking fits into scenarios requiring quick decision-making.

Why Think Again Is a Must-Read

Despite these minor criticisms, Think Again is an empowering book that resonates deeply with today’s world. It is particularly timely given the prevalence of social polarization, where people often entrench themselves in ideological silos. Grant’s call for rethinking encourages us to bridge these divides and approach differences with empathy and curiosity.

This book is especially relevant for those looking to foster personal growth, strengthen relationships, or drive innovation within organizations. It’s also an invaluable resource for leaders who wish to build adaptive, resilient teams by promoting a culture that values openness and flexibility.

Final Thoughts

Adam Grant’s Think Again is a refreshing guide to rethinking and reshaping our beliefs and interactions. By cultivating a habit of rethinking, we can adapt better to change, communicate more effectively, and become more resilient in the face of challenges. Whether you’re an individual striving for self-improvement, a manager seeking to foster innovation, or simply someone curious about the mind’s potential, Think Again offers valuable lessons on the power of intellectual humility. Embrace the art of rethinking—you may just change your mind, and perhaps, your life.