# Ladder of Inference - References ## Summary The Ladder of Inference is a practical mental model from learning-organization work. It explains how humans move from **observable data** to **action** through layers of interpretation. Owlery uses it to make disagreement kinder and more solvable. ## Core sources - The Systems Thinker: The Ladder of Inference - https://thesystemsthinker.com/the-ladder-of-inference/ - Harvard Program on Negotiation: Ladder of Inference resource list - https://www.pon.harvard.edu/daily/negotiation-skills-daily/the-ladder-of-inference-a-resource-list/ - Ladder of Inference handout (Fieldbook-style overview) - https://cdn.edreports.org/legacy/files/Ladder-of-Inference-OCDE.pdf ## How Owlery uses this - If debate loops, run **[[Ladder Check (7 min)]]** - If words sound aligned but outcomes diverge, run **[[Shared Model Sync (15 min)]]** - If urgency is hijacking thinking, run **[[Pressure Reset (7 min)]]** - If the disagreement type is unclear, use **[[Diagnosing the Disagreement]]** ## See Also - [[Ladder of Inference]] - [[06_Lenses/Frame/Shared Mental Models]] - [[Assumptions and Alternatives]]