The article introduces the book "Finite and Infinite Games" by James Carse, highlighting the distinction between finite games, which have clear winners and losers, and infinite games, which are ongoing and unpredictable. It discusses the implications of adopting an infinite mindset in leadership, as emphasized by Simon Sinek in his related work, suggesting that such an approach fosters innovation and resilience in organizations. The article includes links to resources, videos, and related posts for further exploration of these concepts.
Welcome
This article provides an introduction to the book, Finite and Infinite Games: A Vision of Life as Play and Possibility. This book was written by James Carse. Please note that this article is an early work in progress and will be updated soon. Enjoy!
Table of Contents
- Welcome
- Introduction
- Book Covers
- Playing Bongos
- Simon Sinek’s Book
- Videos
- Full Audiobook
- Interviews, Summaries, and Speeches
- Related Posts
- Eden Town Hall 28 - Inspiration and Infinite Games!
- Games
- GameFi
Introduction
Book Covers
You can find the book on GoodReads and other popular book resources.
From the description:
An extraordinary book that will dramatically change the way you experience life. Finite games are the familiar contests of everyday life, the games we play in business and politics, in the bedroom and on the battlefied -- games with winners and losers, a beginning and an end. Infinite games are more mysterious -- and ultimately more rewarding. They are unscripted and unpredictable; they are the source of true freedom. In this elegant and compelling work, James Carse explores what these games mean, and what they can mean to you. He offers stunning new insights into the nature of property and power, of culture and community, of sexuality and self-discovery, opening the door to a world of infinite delight and possibility. "An extraordinary little book . . . a wise and intimate companion, an elegant reminder of the real."
Playing Bongos
You can watch a cool video about Infinite Games created by our founder in 2016 below:
Simon Sinek’s Book
Thought leader Simon Sinek also wrote a book about The Infinite Game, which you can see below. It was first published on October 15, 2019.
From the description:
In finite games, like football or chess, the players are known, the rules are fixed, and the endpoint is clear. The winners and losers are easily identified.In infinite games, like business or politics or life itself, the players come and go, the rules are changeable, and there is no defined endpoint. There are no winners or losers in an infinite game; there is only ahead and behind.
The more I started to understand the difference between finite and infinite games, the more I began to see infinite games all around us. I started to see that many of the struggles that organizations face exist simply because their leaders were playing with a finite mindset in an infinite game. These organizations tend to lag behind in innovation, discretionary effort, morale and ultimately performance.
The leaders who embrace an infinite mindset, in stark contrast, build stronger, more innovative, more inspiring organizations. Their people trust each other and their leaders. They have the resilience to thrive in an ever-changing world, while their competitors fall by the wayside. Ultimately, they are the ones who lead the rest of us into the future.
Any worthwhile undertaking starts with Why - the purpose, cause or belief that inspires us to do what we do and inspires others to join us. Good leaders know how to build Circles of Safety that promote trust and cooperation throughout their organizations. But that's not enough to help us chart a course through the unpredictable, often chaotic landscape of today's marketplace.
I now believe that the ability to adopt an infinite mindset is a prerequisite for any leader who aspires to leave their organization in better shape than they found it.
Videos
Below are some select videos with more about Finite Games and Infinite Games from the author, James Carse, and advocate, Simon Sinek..
Full Audiobook
Interviews, Summaries, and Speeches
Related Posts
Eden Town Hall 28 - Inspiration and Infinite Games!
How has Eden inspired you? In our 28th Town Hall, regen creator Reiki and game developer Leif join us for a fascinating exploration of infinite games and cooperating systems! 🍎
Games
An introduction to some of our favorite games and a philosophical exploration of how games can create profound benefits for all!
GameFi
The thrilling combination of games and Web3 that can help everyone play together to become more independent and enjoy amazing experiences!