| name | mental-model-library |
| description | Use when a problem spans multiple disciplines or when single-domain thinking has produced stale analysis—applies Munger's latticework of mental models across physics, biology, and psychology. |
| license | MIT |
| compatibility | Claude Code and compatible agent products |
| metadata | {"type":"meta","family":"meta","rigor":"full","keywords":"mental models, multidisciplinary, inversion, first principles, entropy, second-order thinking, biases, latticework, Munger, Parrish","requires":"getting-started","enhances":"devils-advocate, decision-frameworks, strategy-clarity","sources_pdf":"The Great Mental Models v1 & v2 (Parrish), Poor Charlie's Almanack (Munger), Seeking Wisdom (Bevelin)","sources_web":"Farnam Street Mental Models Blog"} |
Overview
A "Mental Model" is a representation of how something works—a simplified map of reality. This skill provides a "Latticework of Mental Models" from major disciplines (Physics, Biology, Psychology, Math) to prevent "Man with a Hammer" syndrome—the tendency to treat every problem as a nail because you only have one tool.
Iron Law
NO COMPLEX ANALYSIS WITHOUT CHECKING FOR APPLICABLE MENTAL MODELS
Relying on intuition alone ensures that you will fall victim to predictable cognitive biases. Systematic model application is the only defense against human misjudgment.