Mental models are a way of explaining how things work. Throughout our lives, we build up a personal collection of mental models to understand the world around us.
Mental models aren't perfect but developing a rich toolbox of them can be useful in navigating the complexities of life. Learning to intuitively apply the right models in the right situations is something we develop with practice.
This website is a curated collection of models with broad applicability in everyday life. There’s a focus on brief descriptions and simple, real life examples of the models in use.
Weekly Mental Model
Lindy Effect
Things that have been around for a while are likely to continue to stick around.Description
The Lindy Effect is a theory that suggests the future life expectancy of non-perishable things, such as a technology, an idea, or a book, is proportional to their current age. This means the longer something non-perishable has been around, the longer it is likely to continue to exist. This concept is often used to discuss the longevity of cultural items or technologies, suggesting that those which have proven their durability over time are likely to remain relevant or in use for an extended period.
Examples
Classical works of literature, like those by Shakespeare, having been around for centuries, are likely to remain relevant and read for many more years.
The QWERTY keyboard layout, despite its inefficiencies, has been in use since the 19th century and is likely to continue being the standard due to its widespread adoption and familiarity.