The Good Ancestor

The Good Ancestor examines humanity's relationship with long-term thinking and our responsibility to future generations. Through research and case studies, Roman Krznaric explores how short-term mindsets have led to environmental, economic, and social challenges. The book presents six practical ways to help people think and act with the future in mind. Krznaric draws on examples from fields including architecture, cultural traditions, and environmental science to demonstrate how civilizations have successfully planned for the long term. Historical figures and contemporary leaders illustrate different approaches to becoming "good ancestors" through their actions and legacies. The narrative moves between past achievements and present-day initiatives that aim to safeguard humanity's future. This work raises fundamental questions about human nature and our capacity to transcend immediate gratification for the benefit of those not yet born. The book challenges readers to reconsider their role in shaping tomorrow while providing a framework for extended time horizons in decision-making.

Readers found the book thought-provoking but repetitive. Many appreciated the practical frameworks for long-term thinking and the "Good Ancestor" concept resonated as a way to reframe decision-making. Likes: - Clear examples of successful long-term planning projects - Made abstract concepts tangible through metaphors - Balanced philosophical ideas with concrete actions - Hopeful tone while addressing serious issues Dislikes: - Core message could have been delivered in fewer pages - Some found the writing style overly academic - Examples focused mainly on environmental issues - Several readers noted redundant examples and concepts Ratings: Goodreads: 4.27/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (280+ ratings) Representative review: "Offers practical tools for expanding our time perspective, but belabors certain points" - Goodreads reviewer One frequent comment was that the book's ideas stayed with readers long after finishing, influencing their decision-making and perspective on legacy.

The Precipice by Toby Ord A philosophical investigation into existential risks and humanity's moral obligation to ensure civilization's long-term survival through rational analysis of future scenarios.

Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman An examination of human time perception and mortality that challenges conventional productivity mindsets in favor of multigenerational thinking.

The World Until Yesterday by Jared Diamond A study of traditional societies' approaches to long-term planning and decision-making offers insights for modern civilization's relationship with time and future generations.

The Clock of the Long Now by Stewart Brand The story of the 10,000-year clock project reveals frameworks for ultra-long-term thinking and responsible technological advancement.

Future Ethics by Cennydd Bowles A framework for ethical decision-making in technology development considers the extended consequences of present-day choices on future generations.

🌳 Author Roman Krznaric cofounded The School of Life in London with prominent philosopher Alain de Botton, creating a unique educational institution focused on emotional intelligence and life wisdom. 🕰️ The concept of "Cathedral Thinking" discussed in the book originates from medieval builders who started projects knowing they wouldn't live to see them completed—like the Duomo in Florence, which took 140 years to build. 🌍 The book introduces the term "Time Rebel" to describe individuals and organizations who actively fight against short-term thinking, including the indigenous Iroquois people who made decisions based on their impact seven generations into the future. 🧠 Krznaric explains how humans have developed two distinct time perspectives: the "marshmallow brain" focused on immediate rewards, and the "acorn brain" capable of long-term planning and consideration. 🌱 The Welsh government's Well-being of Future Generations Act, highlighted in the book as a pioneering example of long-term thinking, is the first law in history requiring public officials to consider the impact of their decisions on unborn citizens.