The longer something has survived, the longer it will survive

September 30, 2021

The spoon has been around for thousands of years. It will be around for thousands more.

The Lindy Effect: for non-perishable things—ideas, technologies, cultural practices—longevity predicts more longevity.

A book that’s been read for 500 years will likely be read for another 500. A startup that’s been around for two years… who knows?

The Lindy Effect is why the classics remain relevant. Not because old things are inherently better, but because time is the ultimate filter. What remains has proven it can remain.

Use this when choosing what to read, what to learn, what to build. Let the cream rise before you drink.