Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don't Know by Adam Grant

Book Summary

Think Again (published in 2021) invites readers to rethink why we cling to beliefs and how we can cultivate intellectual humility—a mindset that values doubt, curiosity, and cognitive flexibility over certainty. Grant introduces a range of tools and mindsets—such as the “scientist” mindset versus the “preacher,” “prosecutor,” or “politician”—that help us reassess our assumptions by testing hypotheses instead of defending convictions.

At the individual level, Grant exposes the pitfalls of confirmation bias and the “certainty trap,” urging us to approach our beliefs as working hypotheses rather than fixed truths. He illustrates how people like BlackBerry’s founders failed to adapt, while others—like Steve Jobs—pivoted when data demanded change.

At the interpersonal level, the book explores techniques to help others rethink—techniques like open-ended questioning, reflective listening, counterfactual thinking, and avoiding binary argument styles. Grant argues that humility and curiosity are often more persuasive than aggressive logic.

At the collective or cultural level, Grant shows how organizations, schools, and governments can build environments that promote learning and growth through psychological safety. He challenges performance-only cultures, citing disasters like NASA’s Columbia tragedy as examples of where a learning mindset was missing

Community feedback also highlights that Think Again demonstrates that creativity and leadership often stem from being willing to admit ignorance and seek feedback. As one summary notes:

“Creative geniuses … constantly [are] willing to rethink their stances”
and leaders “who admit they don't know something … lead more productive and innovative teams.”

Key takeaways include: swapping grit-only persistence for curious revisionism; detaching opinions from identity; embracing mistakes as growth; and fostering cultures where questioning deepens understanding.

About the Author

Adam M. Grant (born August 13, 1981) is an American organizational psychologist and a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Grant earned his B.A. from Harvard College and his M.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Michigan. He was the youngest tenured professor at Wharton at just 28 and has consistently ranked as a top-rated instructor there.

He is the bestselling author of Give and Take, Originals, Option B (with Sheryl Sandberg), and Hidden Potential. His work focuses on leadership, motivation, creativity, and organizational behavior. Grant also hosts the popular TED podcast WorkLife and consults for organizations such as Google, the NBA, the U.S. Army, and the U.N.