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Where good ideas come from, Steven Johnson
Steven Johnson is an innovation thinker and writer. In this short video, he outlines the main ideas from his book: 'Where do good ideas come from?' He argues that innovation thrives in interconnected systems where ideas can mingle and evolve over time, often through accidental discoveries and slow hunches rather than sudden breakthroughs. He emphasises the importance of environments that encourage free exchange and connectivity.
View resourceSummary
Steven investigates where good ideas come from, and what has led to unusual rates of creativity and innovation in the past. Through this investigation, he has noticed recurring patterns that are important in creating environments that are unusually innovative, including:
- Slow evolution of ideas: good ideas often start as "slow hunches". They need time to develop, sometimes over many years.
- Collaboration is key: breakthroughs happen when incomplete ideas connect with others, turning them into something greater.
- Importance of connectivity: historically, spaces like coffee houses provided the opportunity for people and ideas to mingle. Today, increased digital connectivity can facilitate this collaboration.
Chance favours the connected mind: innovation thrives on interlinked ideas and minds. This fosters serendipitous discoveries and collaborations.
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