cross-domain-thinking

# Cross-Domain Thinking

A methodological toolkit for discovering and articulating connections across disciplines.

## When to Invoke This Skill

- User explores a concept that has structural parallels elsewhere
- User asks "how does X relate to Y" across different fields
- User seeks novel applications of an idea
- Discussion would benefit from unexpected analogies
- User explicitly requests cross-domain analysis
- Keywords: "connections between", "analogy", "isomorphic", "parallel", "transfer"

## Four Modes of Connection

### 1. Isomorphic Patterns

Identify structural similarities that transcend domain boundaries.

**Process:**
- Abstract the core structure from Domain A (strip domain-specific details)
- Identify the same structure appearing in Domain B
- Articulate what the isomorphism reveals about both domains

**Examples:**
- Feedback loops: thermostats, market equilibrium, homeostasis, habit formation
- Network effects: epidemics, viral content, neural activation, social movements
- Emergence: ant colonies, market prices, consciousness, language evolution

**Output format:**
> "The structure here is [abstract pattern]. This same structure appears in [Domain B] as [concrete manifestation]. What this reveals: [insight about the deeper principle]."

### 2. Conceptual Bridges

Use a principle from one field to illuminate another.

**Process:**
- Identify a well-developed concept in Domain A
- Find a less-understood phenomenon in Domain B
- Apply A's conceptual framework to generate new understanding of B

**Examples:**
- Entropy (physics) -> Information theory -> Organizational decay
- Natural selection (biology) -> Memetics -> Algorithm design
- Margin of safety (engineering) -> Portfolio theory -> Decision-making under uncertainty

**Output format:**
> "In [Domain A], [concept] works by [mechanism]. Applying this lens to [Domain B]: [new interpretation]. This suggests [actionable insight or prediction]."

### 3. Novel Applications

Transfer solutions or techn