Mastering the Art of Second Order Thinking: An Enlightening Insight

**Understanding the Rationale Behind Previous Decisions**
A critical aspect of effective decision-making is comprehending the reasoning behind past decisions. Without this understanding, there is a risk of exacerbating existing problems. To intervene in a system created by someone else, we should not simply view their decisions as the result of first-order thinking. Instead, we need to consider whether they employed second-order thinking – taking into account the consequences of their choices and the subsequent consequences that may arise. By assuming that the decision-maker possessed knowledge or experience that we may not be aware of, we can avoid quick fixes that may make the situation worse.

**The Power of Second-Order Thinking**
Second-order thinking involves going beyond immediate consequences and considering the broader and longer-term effects of decisions. While most individuals are capable of first-order thinking, which is quick and straightforward, second-order thinking requires more complexity and time. The ability to engage in second-order thinking can yield extraordinary results and enable us to recognize when others are using this type of thinking.

**Chesterton’s Fence**
A relevant concept in decision-making is Chesterton’s Fence, derived from the writings of G.K. Chesterton. It warns against removing something, such as a fence or law, without understanding why it was originally put in place. Chesterton’s Fence emphasizes the need to recognize the reasons behind a decision before attempting to change it. By doing so, we can avoid unintended consequences and prevent long-lasting damage.

**Understanding Chesterton’s Fence**
Chesterton’s Fence originated from Chesterton’s book “The Thing” and has been widely adopted, including by former US President John F. Kennedy and as a guiding principle for Wikipedia editors. It illustrates the case of a reformer who fails to grasp the purpose of a fence and attempts to remove it without first investigating its existence. Chesterton’s Fence advises that we should refrain from destroying something until we understand why it was created in the first place.

**The Importance of Reasoning**
Chesterton argued that fences, or any constructed objects, do not simply appear without purpose. People who built fences considered them beneficial and had a reason for their creation. It is crucial to discern and acknowledge this reason before making changes. Although the reason behind the fence may not always be compelling or relevant, understanding it prevents unexpected consequences and subsequent ripple effects that can cause harm.

**Chesterton’s Views on Unintended Consequences**
Chesterton’s writings also highlight the danger of disregarding the decisions and judgments made by previous generations. Treating their actions as thoughtless or irrational dismisses the valuable lessons that can be learned from their experiences. Assuming that previous generations mindlessly constructed fences overlooks the fact that people typically act with purpose. Failing to respect their judgments may inadvertently lead to new and unanticipated problems.

**The Pitfalls of Removing Hierarchies**
An example of overlooking Chesterton’s Fence can be seen in the case of hierarchy-free companies. While some argue that eliminating hierarchies promotes fairness and enhances productivity, it overlooks the reasons why hierarchies exist in the first place. Hierarchies provide structure, enable decision-making, and assign responsibility. In the absence of a formal hierarchy, individuals may form an invisible one that is challenging to navigate and can allow the most influential individuals to take control, rather than the most capable.

**Balancing Change and Tradition**
While it is essential to embrace change and not resist it, it is equally important not to be too dismissive of established practices. Rory Sutherland, a prominent thinker, warns against assuming something is pointless or redundant simply because it appears inefficient. Some things, like the peacock’s tail, are not about efficiency but rather serve as signals or indicators of value. By maintaining a balance between innovation and respect for tradition, we can avoid discarding valuable elements that may contribute to effective decision-making.

In conclusion, understanding the rationale behind past decisions is a crucial aspect of making informed choices. By employing second-order thinking and considering the consequences of actions, we can avoid making hasty decisions that may have detrimental effects. Chesterton’s Fence serves as a reminder to investigate the existence of structures before attempting to remove them, preventing unintended consequences. Respecting the decisions made by previous generations and recognizing their reasons helps us avoid repeating their mistakes. Valuing established practices while embracing change ensures a balanced approach to decision-making.