Getting a handle on the unknown

We cannot tackle the unknown by simply tumbling into the void.

Questions are knowledge-shaped holes. Having such a shape provides anticipation for learning. Do we want the first answer for every question? Do we really want just whatever happens to be the first thing we discover that fits? There’s no reason that first is going to be best. Let’s not rush.

A question is a pointer into the space of unknowns. Recognizing this, you want to be able to work with the pointers themselves, not just immediately attempt to dive in their direction. Who is pointing, and why? What sort of things are you expecting to find? If you want a good solution, you need to be able to take a good look at the problem.

~ Malcom Ocean from, https://www.ribbonfarm.com/2017/08/10/questions-are-not-just-for-asking/

We cannot tackle the unknown by simply tumbling into the void. Questions orient us in a conversation. It doesn’t matter where we begin, only that we do begin. And once begun we need the orientation and direction of good questions.

Should we want answers, or more questions, from our conversations?

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