Edges Quote by Steven Johnson
“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.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Where Good Ideas Come From, 2010
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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