Where Good Ideas Come From

In 'Where Good Ideas Come From', Steven Johnson explores the unexpected places and environments that foster innovative thinking. He challenges the notion of the 'lone genius' and reveals how collaboration and connectivity fuel creativity. By diving into the history of groundbreaking ideas, he uncovers the patterns that lead to breakthroughs in science, technology, and beyond. The book invites readers to consider how their own environments might better stimulate inventive thought. Are you ready to discover the hidden forces behind your next big idea?

By Steven Johnson

Published: 2011

"Chance favors the connected mind."

Where Good Ideas Come FromBook binding

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A fascinating deep dive on innovation from the New York Times bestselling author of How We Got To Now and Unexpected Life The printing press, the pencil, the flush toilet, the battery--these are all great ideas. But where do they come from? What kind of environment breeds them? What sparks the flash of brilliance? How do we generate the breakthrough technologies that push forward our lives, our society, our culture? Steven Johnson's answers are revelatory as he identifies the seven key patterns behind genuine innovation, and traces them across time and disciplines. From Darwin and Freud to the halls of Google and Apple, Johnson investigates the innovation hubs throughout modern time and pulls out the approaches and commonalities that seem to appear at moments of originality.

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About the Author

S

Steven Johnson

Steven Johnson is an acclaimed author and media theorist known for his engaging exploration of the intersection between science, technology, and culture. He has written numerous bestsellers, including 'Where Good Ideas Come From,' 'Everything Bad Is Good for You,' and 'The Ghost Map.' Johnson's writing style is characterized by a narrative approach that blends personal anecdotes with rigorous research, making complex ideas accessible and engaging for a broad audience. Through his work, he often encourages readers to examine the underlying patterns of innovation and the dynamics of urban life, making him a prominent voice in contemporary non-fiction.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Steven Johnson
Published
October 2011
Publisher
Penguin
ISBN
1594485380
Language
English
Pages
345
Genres
Self-HelpBusiness and EconomicsPersonal Growth

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Chance favors the connected mind.

Where Good Ideas Come From

By Steven Johnson

Frequently Asked Questions