Lateral Thinking: Creativity Step by StepThe classic work on creativity and problem-solving techniques that "provide an alternative to just sitting around waiting for the Muse to appear" ( Times Educational Supplement). The first practical explanation of how creativity works, this results-oriented classic reveals how to move beyond a "vertical" mode of thought—focused on following step-by-step logic in search of a single "correct" solution—to tap the potential of lateral thinking, which leads us to creatively generate multiple ideas. A prominent scholar of psychology, medicine, and physiology who taught at Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, and other world-renowned universities, Edward de Bono was the originator of the concept of lateral thinking, and in this book he explains this method that can benefit problem-solvers in any field. "This could be a very useful book for teachers and non-teachers alike. Dr. DeBono does not claim to be able to turn us all into Miltons, DaVincis, and Einsteins . . . but his techniques provide an alternative to just sitting around waiting for the Muse to appear. The Muse never appears to most of us—hence the value of this book." — Times Educational Supplement |
Contents
The way the mind works | |
Difference between lateral and vertical thinking | |
Attitudes towards lateral thinking | |
Basic nature of lateral thinking | |
The use of lateral thinking | |
Fractionation | |
The reversal method | |
Brainstorming | |
Analogies | |
Choice of entry point and attention area | |
Random stimulation | |
Conceptsdivisionspolarization | |
The new word | |
Techniques | |
The generation of alternatives | |
Challenging assumptions | |
Innovation | |
Suspended judgment | |
Design | |
Dominant ideas and crucial factors | |
Blocked by openness | |
Descriptionproblem solvingdesign | |
Summary | |
Other books by Edward de Bono | |
Copyright | |
About the Publisher | |
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Common terms and phrases
actually analogy apple picking machine approach arrangement of information assumption behaviour better blackboard block brainstorming session caterpillar track challenge choice cliché patterns cliché unit concept convenient creativity crucial factor definite deliberate described device difficult discussion divided division dominant idea easier Edward de Bono effect entry point established patterns evaluation fractions function function of PO give happens HarperCollins indicate inductive logic insight restructuring instance judgment label lateral thinking logical thinking looking at things material matter means memory surface method mind move natural notetaker object obvious Once one’s particular pathway picture pieces point of view possible practice sessions provocative purpose putting things random input random stimulation random word rectangle reversal rigid search for alternatives shape shown opposite situation solution someone sort students are asked suggestions teacher techniques traffic tree trying usually vertical thinking wants windscreen wrong