Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breath free, the wretched refuse of your teeming shore, send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed, to me: I lift my lamp beside the golden door .... Emma Lazarus, American poet (Inscription on the statue of liberty, New York 1883)
First order thinking is a way of analyzing problems or decisions by focusing on the immediate, direct consequences or effects of an action.
- It looks at the immediate, obvious result of a choice or event.
- It’s often simple and straightforward.
- It doesn’t consider the longer-term or indirect effects.
What is Second Order Thinking?
- It’s about thinking beyond the immediate consequences.
- You consider the longer-term, indirect, or ripple effects of a decision or action.
- It requires anticipating what happens next, and what follows after that.
- It’s often more complex and strategic
Second order thinking applied on space exploration is beginning to power the future of commerce. From fleet efficiency to climate resilience, space-based systems are helping companies move goods, manage risks and unlock new opportunities.
Space exploration has driven tons of tech innovations that have also transformed everyday life on Earth.
Some cool space-inspired technologies:
1. Solar Panels
Originally developed to power satellites and spacecraft, solar panel technology has improved efficiency and durability because of the harsh space environment. Now, they’re everywhere on Earth, from rooftops to calculators.
2. Memory Foam
Developed by NASA in the 1970s to improve cushioning in spacecraft seats, memory foam is now widely used in mattresses, pillows, and sports gear.
3. Water Purification Systems
NASA needed reliable ways to recycle water on the International Space Station. This tech has been adapted for clean water solutions on Earth, including portable water filters and purification systems in disaster zones.
4. Cordless Power Tools
To help astronauts work on the moon, NASA helped develop cordless tools with rechargeable batteries. This innovation directly influenced the design of modern cordless drills and other battery-powered tools.
5. Insulation Materials (e.g., Aerogel)
Aerogels and other lightweight, high-performance insulation materials were refined for spacecraft. These materials are now used in building insulation, clothing, and even sporting equipment.
6. Freeze-Dried Food
To feed astronauts on long missions, NASA developed freeze-dried food that retains nutrients and lasts long. This technology is common now in camping and emergency food supplies.
7. Satellite Communication
Satellite technology has revolutionized global communication, GPS navigation, weather forecasting, and television broadcasting.
8. Scratch-Resistant Lenses
NASA created coatings for astronauts’ helmet visors that resist scratches and glare. These coatings are now used in eyeglasses, sunglasses, and camera lenses.
9. Fire-Resistant Materials
Materials designed to protect spacecraft and astronauts from fire have found uses in firefighting gear and fireproof clothing.
10. Infrared Ear Thermometers
Infrared sensors, originally developed for monitoring the temperature of stars and planets, were adapted to quickly and non-invasively measure body temperature through the ear.
First order thinking can sometimes lead to short-sighted decisions. Second order thinking helps you avoid unintended consequences and make better long-term choices. It’s useful in investing, business, relationships, and pretty much any complex decision-making.
Apply second order to your TAM
What is TAM?
Total Addressable Market is the total revenue opportunity available for a product or service if it captured 100% market share.
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