Words Builds Worlds

Words Builds Worlds is an experimental method to revise learning by using words or concepts as a single point of reference to gain knowledge and wisdom.

Words create worlds. Even a simple word can become a prison.
- Author

Don't write novels in your head. Read good literature and see how the writer constructs his novel.
- Co-Author

An Open-Source Dictionary of Mental Lenses

As humans, we get stuck in our own perspectives. We try to solve problems using the same vocabulary that created them.

This is where I would use WBW. WBW is a mental framework. By taking a single 'anchor word' and passing or filtering our problem through it, we can generate new thoughts—new insights. To learn from it on a different angle.

WBW is not a replacement for academic learning nor apprenticeship, nor is it a universal truth about human cognition. It's a mental model, a practical tool to enhance lateral thinking and empathy.

Caution

WBW is dependent on the author's biased view of the world and how learning should be approached. Please use with caution. Mental models can be dangerous, deep pits if not tread on carefully.

Foundations

WBW relies on two foundations:

Words create worlds: Language(signs, symbols, letters) influences thought and helps speakers perceive and categorize reality.
Insights are everywhere: Learning is derivation of connections between concepts/words. That we can understand a concept through a connection to another.

This allows one to do top-down learning by using a selected word to filter reality.
You can say that WBW is an upgrade to the metaphor "put themselves in another's shoes" except using a word's shoes.

Goals

WBW is built to:

Help create a structured way of passing/learning wisdom.
Help create new perceptions of reality and enjoyment.
Facilitate critical thinking for readers

Examples

Perception

the ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through the senses.

the state of being or process of becoming aware of something through the senses.

a way of regarding, understanding, or interpreting something; a mental impression.

intuitive understanding and insight.

Using the word perception. (TBD)

Tab 1

Comfort

a state of physical ease and freedom from pain or constraint.

the easing or alleviation of a person's feelings of grief or distress.

ease the grief or distress of; console.

improve the mood of or restore a sense of well-being to.

Using the word comfort. (TBD)

Caveats

WBW is an experimental method to create mental models. Please use with caution.
Academic learning and apprenticeship are great ways to learn concrete and actionable knowledge. WBW does not replace these kind of method, but plan to enhance it.

What is WBW?