Thiel's Future Framework

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Peter Thiel’s “Future Framework” provides an effective way to understand how our values shape the future. Whether we view the future predetermined or random will impact our decisions, politics, culture, and beliefs. He also describe how our inherent levels of optimism or pessimist also influence the type of future we create. 


I will try to simplify what is otherwise a brilliant interpretation of how personal values about the future have macro effects on business, culture, innovation, stagnancy, society, and government. 

So here are the questions about the future:

  1. Do you see the future as determinate, meaning the future is generally predictable where you can map out and plan things?
  • Or do you believe the future is indeterminate, where events are unpredictable and there is no way you can effectively plan for the future?  

I think the future is . . .  Determinate / Indeterminate

  1. Are you optimistic about the future and think things will improve?
  • Or, are you pessimistic and think things will get worse?

I am  . . . Optimistic / Pessimistic . . . about the future

 
Now you can plot your answers in the quadrants - 


If you are -

Determinate / Optimistic = Promise of the Future
You believe the future will be better than the present. You have high confidence in the future and work towards your goals. You will have specific ideas and engage in long-term planning. 

Indeterminate / Optimistic = Promise of the Future
You believe the future will be better, but you focus on short-term planning because you see many unknown risks. 

Determinate / Pessimistic: = Fear of the Future
You believe the future is determined and there is nothing you or anyone else can do to make changes, and you know the future will be worse than today. 

Indeterminate / Pessimistic = Fear of the Future
You believe the future is unknown and it causes you to avoid planning. You know the future will be worse than today. Since the future is unknown, you are unable to prepare effectively. 

Where do you fit? Do you think the future is determined or can we make an impact? Do you feel optimistic or pessimistic about the future?