The Lindy Effect: Choosing Books That Stand the Test of Time

Hatched by Kazuki

Sep 15, 2023

3 min read

6 views

The Lindy Effect: Choosing Books That Stand the Test of Time

In an age of information overload, it's crucial to be discerning about the books we choose to read. With so many options available, how do we ensure that we're investing our time wisely? The answer lies in understanding the basics and applying the concept of the Lindy Effect.

Charlie Munger, the legendary investor and Warren Buffett's right-hand man, once said, "The more basic knowledge you have, the less new knowledge you have to get." This simple yet profound statement highlights the importance of building a solid foundation of knowledge. By understanding the basics, we can better comprehend complex ideas and predict their consequences.

Getting back to basics may not always be exciting or glamorous, but it is a necessary step in effective thinking. When we take the time to deeply understand simple ideas, we create lasting knowledge that can serve as a springboard for further learning. It's like building a sturdy house on a solid foundation – it ensures stability and durability.

This is where the Lindy Effect comes into play. The Lindy Effect is a concept that suggests that the longer something has been around, the longer it is likely to continue existing. It applies particularly well to non-perishable things, such as books. As Nassim Nicholas Taleb explains, "For the perishable, every additional day in its life translates into a shorter additional life expectancy. For the nonperishable, every additional day may imply a longer life expectancy."

In other words, as time passes, books gain value. Unlike perishable items, which deteriorate with each passing day, books become more valuable with age. The longer a book has been in existence, the more likely it is to stand the test of time. This is why ancient texts from thousands of years ago can still provide valuable insights and knowledge to this day.

The Lindy Effect challenges the notion that newer is always better. It reminds us to pay attention to the wisdom of the past and not get caught up in the hype of the latest trends. Instead of chasing after the newest releases, we can benefit from focusing on books that have proven their worth over time.

So how do we apply the Lindy Effect in our book selection process? Here are three actionable tips:

1. Prioritize classics: Seek out books that have stood the test of time and are still widely read and respected today. These are the books that have accumulated wisdom and insights over the years and are more likely to provide timeless value.

2. Look for enduring principles: When choosing books, pay attention to the underlying principles and ideas they convey. Ideas that have withstood the test of time are more likely to remain relevant and applicable in the future.

3. Seek diverse perspectives: The Lindy Effect applies not only to individual books but also to the collective body of knowledge. By exploring books from different time periods and authors with diverse perspectives, we gain a broader understanding of the world and increase our chances of discovering valuable insights.

In conclusion, the Lindy Effect offers a valuable framework for selecting books that will provide a high return on our invested time. By understanding the basics and prioritizing books that have stood the test of time, we can ensure that our reading choices are both enriching and enduring. So next time you're deciding on your next book, remember to take a simple idea and take it seriously.