Thinking models
The maps I have been thinking with for twenty years. The canon, and how each one ports into AI agents.
- Spiral Dynamics
An integral model of the levels of consciousness: value systems - 'memes' - replace one another as the complexity of thinking grows (Graves → Beck and Cowan).
- Karpman Drama Triangle
The Karpman drama triangle: Victim - Persecutor - Rescuer. How the '-1' triangle of suffering works, and the evolution through the Hero to the Winner.
- Triune Brain Model
Paul MacLean's triune brain model: the reptilian brain, the limbic brain and the neocortex. Who is really in charge of us, how to use this in decisions, communication and goals - and what growth and AI agents have to do with it.
- Iceberg Model
The iceberg model is a systems thinking tool: under a visible event lie patterns, structures and our beliefs. How to go down to these levels, stop fixing symptoms and find the lever that actually changes the situation - in life, at work and in AI agent design.
- Spheres of Life
Spheres of Life is a model that helps you see where you are truly present, where you influence, and where you only burn attention. Three axes: closeness, scale and agency.
- Wheel of Life (Balance Wheel)
The wheel of life is a visual snapshot: how satisfied we are with different areas of life. Not a diagnosis and not a plan - a point where an honest conversation with yourself begins.