II. Focused Attention ↑
20. Deep attention satisfies us with flow, and delivers enhanced understanding and problem-solving.
Deep attention allows us to focus at length on a complex problem or situation, and to apply our powers of cognition to coming up with understanding and solutions.
In other words, deep attention helps us to figure things out.
Deep attention is an important complement to shallow attention.
Deep attention also produces an inner experience of flow, which can be profoundly satisfying to those experiencing it.
But too much demand for shallow attention deprives us of the ability to pay deep attention.
Words from Others on this Topic
Ken Dymond recounts a story, told by one Nobel scientist, of how another, Richard Feynman, solves hard problems.
"First, he writes down the question on a blackboard or a yellow pad of paper.
"Next, he thinks real hard….
“Then, he writes down the answer.”
Ken Dymond, 1995, from the book A Guide to the CMM: Understanding the Capability Maturity Model for Software
Our conventional response to all media, namely that it is how they are used that counts, is the numb stance of the technological idiot. For the ‘content’ of a medium is like the juicy piece of meat carried by the burglar to distract the watchdog of the mind.
Marshall McLuhan, 1964, from the book Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man
Relevant Reference Models
- An element of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
Next: III. Shared culture