How Minds Change

"Once it seems like you've received confirmation that you are correct, you don't go looking for disconfirmation just to make sure." Assimilation and accommodation. These two processes, identified by psychologist Jean Piaget, explain how minds change. Assimilation involves integrating new information into existing mental structures, while accommodation requires modifying those structures to fit new information. When faced with new information, people first try to assimilate it. Only when assimilation fails do they consider accommodation. This explains why simply presenting facts often fails to

Lesson 1: Minds change through assimilation and accommodation, not just facts

David McRaney reveals how the stories we tell ourselves shape outcomes as powerfully as external reality. In How Minds Change, this psychological insight becomes a practical tool: change the narrative, change the result.

Lesson 2: Deep canvassing: A revolutionary approach to changing minds

David McRaney reveals how the stories we tell ourselves shape outcomes as powerfully as external reality. In How Minds Change, this psychological insight becomes a practical tool: change the narrative, change the result.

Lesson 3: The SURFPAD model explains why people disagree on seemingly obvious issues

This principle from How Minds Change is backed by David McRaney's extensive research and real-world examples. Understanding it deeply can shift how you approach decisions, relationships, and long-term planning in meaningful ways.

How to Apply How Minds Change's Lessons

The real value of How Minds Change lies in its applicability. After reading, the most important step is identifying which of David McRaney's principles speak most directly to your current situation.

Consider keeping a journal while reading — noting where the ideas challenge your current approach and where they confirm what you already suspected. The friction of your own resistance often points to the most important insights.

Key Quote

"Minds change through assimilation and accommodation, not just facts" — David McRaney, How Minds Change

About the Author

David McRaney is the author of How Minds Change. The book reflects years of research, observation, and synthesis of evidence from multiple disciplines.