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The Power of Agency in an Ever-Changing World

The Power of Agency in an Ever-Changing World

Lessons from Devon Eriksen

Mandy Alhorn
December 14, 2024

A few days ago, I stumbled upon a thought-provoking conversation with Devon Eriksen, an author who’s taken the internet by storm with his bold insights and unconventional wisdom. As someone deeply interested in personal growth and the transformative power of technology, I found Devon’s journey and philosophy incredibly inspiring.

His latest work, Theft of Fire, is not just a gripping science fiction novel but a testament to his belief in creativity, resilience, and human agency. This blog post dives into the nuggets of wisdom from his interview, touching on education, the future of work, and why agency is the linchpin for success in a rapidly evolving world.

Reimagining Education: From Training to True Learning

Devon’s critique of the current education system was both sharp and insightful. According to him, our schools prioritize training—preparing students to fulfill predefined roles—over education, which should empower individuals to learn, adapt, and solve new problems. He likened the current approach to training Roman slaves for specific tasks, rather than equipping free citizens to navigate life’s complexities.

His proposed “seven liberal arts of the modern world”—logic, statistics, rhetoric, research, psychology, investment, and agency—resonated deeply with me. These skills are not only essential for personal success but also for understanding and shaping the society we live in.

Agency: The Missing Ingredient

What sets successful individuals apart, Devon argued, isn’t just intelligence—it’s agency. Agency is the ability to take initiative, face failures, and persist until success is achieved. In a world increasingly defined by automation and artificial intelligence, agency becomes even more critical. It’s the human capacity to decide, adapt, and act that machines cannot replicate.

Devon’s perspective on agency reminded me of my own journey into the worlds of AI and crypto. Early on, I made countless mistakes, but each one taught me how to pivot, learn, and try again. It’s this belief in one’s ability to overcome challenges—a belief that must be cultivated, especially in children—that creates true resilience.

Stories as Tools for Transformation

One of the most compelling parts of the conversation was Devon’s view on storytelling. Fiction, he argued, is far from frivolous; it’s the DNA of culture. Stories shape our values, aspirations, and even our technological ambitions. He pointed out how science fiction inspired real-world innovations, from reusable rockets to genetic engineering.

This perspective struck a chord with me. As someone who’s explored AI and crypto, I’ve seen firsthand how narratives influence adoption and innovation. Stories don’t just entertain—they educate, inspire, and chart the course for the future.

Owning Your Path

Devon’s journey from software engineering to independent authorhood is a masterclass in taking ownership. He rejected traditional publishing because he believed it offered little value to creators in today’s digital age. Instead, he built a direct relationship with his audience—proving that authenticity and quality can carve a path to success.

This resonates deeply with my philosophy on leveraging technology for independence. Whether you’re writing a book, starting a business, or exploring a new field, owning your work means owning your future.

Final Reflections

Devon Eriksen’s insights left me energized and introspective. His emphasis on agency, education, and storytelling challenges us to rethink our assumptions and take charge of our lives. In an age of rapid change, the ability to learn, adapt, and create is more important than ever.

So, what’s your next move? Whether it’s embracing a new skill, telling your own story, or reimagining your path, remember: agency isn’t just a skill—it’s the foundation of freedom.