The History Lens
Every problem has a past. When we look through the History Lens, we consider the past as a series of stories.
These stories often contradict each other, even when they are being told by the same group. Many times they include fanciful elements or outright lies. But the themes of these stories deeply inform behavior in the present day. This lens helps us better understand these themes, then explore if new stories could change behavior.
GETTING STARTED WITH THE HISTORY LENS
1. What's the origin story for your problem? If you ask a typical person who is involved in it, "Hey, how did this all get started?", what would they say? It's okay if there are competing origin stories.
2. The past of your problem likely includes stories of "heroes" and "villains." Who are some of these characters and what stories are told about them? How do those stories influence behavior today?
3. What are some untrue stories about your problem that people seem to believe no matter what? Try to focus on stories and not just false beliefs in isolation -- but if you are really mad about a particular falsehood, you can always ask, "What larger story is this wrong idea a part of?" In any case, think about what influence the story has on people's behavior now.