The Good Ancestor

In The Good Ancestor, Roman Krznaric challenges readers to reframe their perspective on time and legacy. While our modern world is fixated on instant gratification and the immediacy of the present moment, Krznaric offers a compelling call to adopt long-term thinking to tackle the pressing issues of our era. The book explores the fundamental question: how can we leave a thriving world for future generations, ensuring that our descendants will look back at us as good ancestors? Drawing on historical examples and contemporary innovations, Krznaric presents six revolutionary ways to extend our foresight and plan for the distant future.

The very essence of human progress, from the ancient seeds planted millennia ago to the groundbreaking scientific discoveries that secure our wellbeing today, is built on long-term thinking. Despite this, we often find ourselves trapped in a cycle of short-term concerns — driven by the continuous barrage of news, social media updates, and consumerist urges that demand our immediate attention. Amidst this chaos, the need for long-term thinking has never been more urgent.

Krznaric artfully argues that despite the dominance of short-termism, we have a natural capacity for long-term thinking, a trait that has led to the construction of enduring masterpieces like the pyramids and institutions like the NHS. In The Good Ancestor, he reveals how we can harness this intrinsic skill to positively shape the future. The book outlines six profound practices that can help us think beyond our immediate needs and desires, advocating for concepts such as 'cathedral thinking' — planning projects that span across lifetimes.

With vivid narratives and real-world examples, Krznaric introduces us to communities and pioneers from across the globe who are already implementing these visionary ideas. These stories celebrate the architects of radical solutions in democracy, culture, and economics, all united by their commitment to sustainable and forward-thinking approaches. Through these insights, readers are inspired to embrace their roles as stewards of the future, cultivating a legacy of responsibility and foresight.

Endorsed by influential figures such as The Edge of U2, who acclaim it as "the book our children's children will thank us for reading," The Good Ancestor serves as both a manifesto and a practical guide. It empowers us to shift our mindsets, encouraging an exploration of our often-overlooked human capacity for imagination and deep foresight. By fostering these qualities, Krznaric believes we can create a world that values enduring prosperity and environmental stewardship over ephemeral gains.

Ultimately, The Good Ancestor is not just a book — it is a transformative journey that invites readers to redefine their relationship with time, legacy, and the future of humanity.