Where Good Ideas Come From

Discuss the importance of “slow hunches” in the development of groundbreaking ideas. How does this concept challenge popular notions of eureka moments? What are the wider implications for our understanding of innovations and breakthroughs?

How does Johnson demonstrate that “error” can be a crucial driver of innovation? Provide examples from the book to support your analysis. Why does he emphasize the importance of error in innovation?

How does the author’s exploration of “exaptation” in nature relate to innovation in human endeavors? How does it compare to other forms of adaptation?

Analyze the significance of “platforms” in Johnson’s theory of innovation. How do they enable further breakthroughs?

Discuss the tension between market-driven innovation and open-source collaboration as presented in the book. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?

How does Johnson’s “fourth quadrant” challenge conventional wisdom about the sources of innovation?

Examine the role of serendipity in innovation as described by Johnson. How can environments be structured to promote serendipitous discoveries?

Analyze the parallels Johnson draws between biological evolution and the evolution of ideas. How do these analogies help illustrate his key themes and ideas?