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Open Elastic : flexible thinking in a time of change
Elastic : flexible thinking in a time of change cover

Elastic : flexible thinking in a time of change

Leonard Mlodinow

14 pages29 min

The book introduces 'elastic thinking' as a vital tool for navigating a modern world characterized by rapid technological and social shifts. It contrasts this bottom-up, non-linear cognitive style, which includes neophilia and imagination, with top-down analytical reasoning. The author argues that the ability to solve novel problems and abandon ingrained assumptions is essential for both professional success and personal well-being. Drawing on advances in neuroscience, the book explores the brain's architecture, demonstrating how creative insights and adaptability arise from the unsupervised interaction of billions of neurons, often when executive control eases. It examines psychological factors, cultural influences, and practical strategies for nurturing flexible thought processes, emphasizing that embracing elastic thinking is crucial for thriving in a constantly evolving environment.