Summary of Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don't Know

In Think Again, Adam Grant, bestselling author of Give and Take and Originals, delves into the essential skill of rethinking. While intelligence is often defined by our ability to think and learn, Grant argues that in today’s rapidly evolving world, the ability to rethink and unlearn may matter even more. He challenges us to question our opinions, embrace discomfort, and open our minds to new possibilities—skills that are crucial for success at work and wisdom in life.

We often gravitate toward the comfort of certainty and the reassurance of like-minded people, surrounding ourselves with opinions that affirm what we already believe. But this mindset can make our beliefs rigid and our thinking narrow. In contrast, Grant advocates for the humility to doubt ourselves and the courage to embrace disagreement as an opportunity to grow. Rather than defending our views like preachers or politicians, he suggests we approach life more like scientists—constantly open to questioning, learning, and adjusting our understanding.

Think Again offers a powerful framework for fostering intellectual and emotional flexibility, drawing on inspiring examples from various fields. From international debate champions to Black musicians who convince white supremacists to change their views, Grant demonstrates the transformative power of being willing to rethink. He argues that true wisdom lies in knowing what we don’t know and encourages readers to cultivate mental flexibility over rigid consistency. Through bold ideas and rigorous evidence, Think Again empowers us to engage in more meaningful conversations, embrace the joy of being wrong, and create communities of lifelong learners.