Book Review: “Think Again” by Adam Grant

In a world where certainty often feels like a virtue, Adam Grant challenges us to embrace the power of doubt and rethinking. Published in 2021, “Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know” arrives at a crucial moment when our convictions are being tested more than ever.

This groundbreaking book introduces a revolutionary premise: the ability to unlearn and rethink might be the most vital skill for thriving in an increasingly complex world. Grant, an organizational psychologist and Wharton’s top-rated professor, brings both scientific rigor and practical wisdom to show you how intellectual humility can become your superpower.

Core Concepts

Think Again revolves around the transformative practice of rethinking – the conscious act of questioning our assumptions and updating our beliefs. Grant presents a compelling framework that distinguishes between three professional modes: preacher, prosecutor, and politician. He then introduces a fourth, more powerful mode: the scientist mindset. This approach embraces uncertainty, welcomes evidence that challenges our beliefs, and views our thoughts as hypotheses to be tested rather than truths to be defended.

The book’s methodology centers on:

1. Recognizing your own blind spots and overconfidence
2. Creating the conditions for others to change their minds
3. Building learning organizations that promote psychological safety
4. Developing the habit of regular belief updating

Chapter-by-Chapter Review

Part I: Individual Rethinking

Grant begins by exploring how we can become more comfortable with being wrong. He shares fascinating research about expert forecasters who succeed not because of what they know, but because of how they think. The chapter on “updating our own views” provides practical techniques for developing confident humility.

Part II: Interpersonal Rethinking

This section tackles the challenging task of opening other people’s minds. Through compelling stories and research, Grant demonstrates how listening with genuine curiosity and asking thought-provoking questions proves more effective than aggressive argumentation.

Part III: Collective Rethinking

The final part expands to organizational and social contexts, showing how we can create cultures that encourage healthy debate and learning. Grant provides actionable strategies for building learning organizations where rethinking is the norm rather than the exception.

Key Strengths

• Combines rigorous research with engaging storytelling
• Offers practical, actionable frameworks for better thinking
• Provides real-world examples from business, education, and personal life
• Balances theoretical insights with immediate applicability

Potential Drawbacks

• Some readers might find the emphasis on doubt challenging to their existing beliefs
• The scientific mindset approach may feel uncomfortable for those seeking absolute certainty
• Requires significant emotional intelligence to implement effectively

Who This Book Is For

This book is particularly valuable for:

1. Leaders and managers looking to build more adaptable teams
2. Professionals in rapidly changing industries who need to stay mentally agile
3. Anyone interested in improving their decision-making and critical thinking skills
4. Educators and parents who want to foster learning mindsets

Alternative Books

If you are looking for other books like “Think Again”, consider these alternatives: