What Are First Principles?

"First Principles" is a term that goes back to the system of logic introduced by Aristotle. It refers to a proposition (cause) that is so basic in a particular system that it cannot be broken down into any other underlying causes. In that regard, it is like "bed rock" for a structural system.

Before the internet age and near instant access to humanity's collective knowledge, First Principles were how people, particularly engineers and scientists, came to understand what and how variables needed to be manipulated within a particular system to get the best results from that system.

First Principles were, and still are, the most important element in thinking about innovations within a system. Unfortunately, the internet has taught us that is easier to quickly copy and try a "solution" that somebody else thinks might work. "Reasoning from First Principles" has largely disappeared as a skill. That's a shame, because First Principles are the keys to both Excellence and Innovation.