The Opposable Mind: Winning Through Integrative Thinking

by Roger Martin
The Opposable Mind: Winning Through Integrative Thinking cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Business and Economics
Technical
  • ID: 3300
  • Added: 2025-10-17
  • Updated: 2025-10-17
  • Published: 2009-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

The Opposable Mind by Roger Martin challenges the conventional wisdom of following best practices from successful leaders. Instead, it emphasizes understanding and emulating how exceptional leaders think. The book introduces the concept of integrative thinking, which involves creatively resolving tensions in opposing models to form new and superior solutions. Martin draws on diverse stories of leaders like AG Lafley and Meg Whitman to illustrate how integrative thinkers diagnose and synthesize situations by asking probing questions and considering various types of knowledge. The book provides a model for strengthening integrative thinking skills, drawing on both conceptual and experiential knowledge. It offers practical advice on how to apply integrative thinking in real-world scenarios, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their problem-solving abilities and achieve greater success.

Reviews
The Exceptional Skills · 2025-10-17
insightful 4.50

The book is praised for its practical approach to decision-making, offering a unique framework for leaders to evaluate options effectively. It emphasizes the importance of integrative thinking in solving complex problems.

This review highlights the book's practicality and its focus on integrative thinking as a crucial skill for leaders. The reviewer appreciates how the book provides a structured approach to decision-making, encouraging readers to ask critical questions about each option. They believe this method can significantly improve leadership skills and problem-solving abilities. The book is seen as a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their strategic thinking and make better decisions in both personal and professional contexts.

Quick quotes

    Roger Martin (The Opposable Mind) suggests asking about each option: “What would have to be true for this to be the best choice?”

    This helps you evaluate each option more effectively and make better decisions.

    The book provides a unique framework for leaders to think about complex problems.

Chief Learning Officer · 2020-06-01
informative 4.00

The book is commended for its insights into how reading can enhance leadership skills, particularly through integrative thinking. It is considered a must-read for aspiring leaders.

This review discusses how 'The Opposable Mind' is a key resource for leaders looking to improve their skills through reading. The reviewer notes that the book's emphasis on integrative thinking is particularly valuable, as it encourages leaders to consider multiple perspectives and find innovative solutions. They believe that the book's insights can help leaders make more informed decisions and ultimately become more effective in their roles. The reviewer sees the book as an essential read for anyone aiming to develop their leadership capabilities.

Quick quotes

    The Opposable Mind: Winning Through Integrative Thinking, by Roger Martin

    The book is considered a must-read for aspiring leaders.

    It encourages leaders to consider multiple perspectives and find innovative solutions.

Monday Molly Musings · 2012-12-31
timeless 4.20

The book is recognized for its timeless relevance and impact on leadership development. It is seen as a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their decision-making skills.

This review reflects on the enduring relevance of 'The Opposable Mind' and its impact on leadership development. The reviewer acknowledges the book's ability to provide valuable insights into integrative thinking, which remains crucial for effective leadership. They appreciate how the book's principles can be applied to various aspects of life, making it a versatile and timeless resource. The reviewer believes that the book's emphasis on integrative thinking is particularly beneficial for those looking to enhance their decision-making skills and become more effective leaders.

Quick quotes

    Brian recognized the book right away: The Opposable Mind: Winning Through Integrative Thinking by Roger Martin.

    Now is a great time for me to read this book.

    The book's principles can be applied to various aspects of life.

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