The Bridge: Connecting the Powers of Linear and Circular Thinking - Paperback

by Kim Hudson (Author)

The Bridge offers a model for viewing differing perspectives, like that of artists and scientists, along with insights into the importance of both. Likewise, Western and Indigenous cultural values may find their place within a latticework for holding each perspective on its own terms. Other benefits such as recognizing the optimal times for reciprocal as opposed to transactional agreements, the transition from conflict to shared problem solving, and service leadership rather than command-and-control leadership can all be enabled by this framework for linear and circular thinking.

The Bridge is an introduction to a tool for participating in linear and circular thinking. The examples are chosen for their clarity and ease of remembrance, which is why stories are highly favoured.

The Bridge inspires a pause while we choose the optimal mindset for moving forward. When we step back and see a bigger pattern, we are less reactive.

No person or organization is completely linear or circular. We are all bridging both every day, even if that process is unconscious. And, each person, community, and organization finds the combination of circular and linear thinking that feels right to them. With this model for two ways of knowing, we gain the potential to expand our comfort zones and shift our balance point in response to any situation. In essence, we become more dynamic.

The Bridge describes two forms of power, and two operating systems that provide insight and a simple tool for navigating linear and circular thinking.

Canadian Authors Association judge for the 2025 Whistler Independent Book Awards

The Bridge is an exceptionally well researched and written book that should be required reading for any legislative leader, communications professional, community organizer, and anyone interested in the dynamics of human relationships and problem-solving. I was previously familiar with the concept of circular thinking, particularly as it's practised in various First Nations across Canada, but I didn't fully grasp the true value of combining its ethos with that of linear thinking until I read this book. I firmly believe the world would be a much better place if people read The Bridge and engaged with its arguments in good faith. It is an incredibly timely book that needs to be on millions of shelves.