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The adjacent possible is a kind of shadow future, hovering…

“The adjacent possible is a kind of shadow future, hovering on the edges of the present state of things, a map of all the ways in which the present can reinvent itself.” quote by Steven Johnson
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“The adjacent possible is a kind of shadow future, hovering on the edges of the present state of things, a map of all the ways in which the present can reinvent itself.”

Steven Johnson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The “adjacent possible” describes near‑future opportunities that emerge from current conditions, mapping potential innovations.

In simple terms: Near‑future opportunities arise from present state.

Key Takeaway

Explore current possibilities for innovation.

Themes

innovation possibility future

Mood

analytical curious

Type

scientific inspirational

When to use this quote

  • product development
  • research
  • strategic planning

Key Concepts

systems theory creative thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • What adjacent possibilities exist now?
  • How to expand beyond the adjacent?
A Different Perspective

Focusing only on adjacent ideas may limit radical breakthroughs.

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