Lateral Thinking

Creativity Step by Step

by Edward de Bono

4.2(949 ratings)

10 min read

Brief overview

This book explores a way of thinking that goes beyond standard logic. Through practical exercises and mindset shifts, it demonstrates how to create fresh solutions, see problems from new angles, and rethink limiting routines. By deliberately challenging assumptions, you'll discover sharper methods for problem solving and innovation in all areas of life.

Introduction

Most people grow up thinking in a strictly logical, step-by-step way. While this is valuable, it can sometimes keep you stuck within predictable boundaries. The approach examined here offers a structured path to break out of these limitations.

At its core, this framework treats the mind as a pattern-making machine, quick to recognize useful shortcuts. However, these mental shortcuts can become rigid. If we rely on them too heavily, we may miss more creative and often better solutions.

By adopting targeted techniques to provoke new perspectives, you can unlock innovative directions. In the following pages, you’ll see how to question old views, entertain seemingly “wrong” ideas, and use generative activities to spark insights.

Sticking with what's merely adequate can block you from exploring a truly exceptional approach.

The Concept of Lateral Thinking

Lateral thinking is about sidestepping the usual logical path. Instead of only looking for the single correct approach, you keep generating multiple ways to view a situation. By doing so, you avoid becoming locked in place by what seems right at first.

A central idea is that any given problem can be framed differently, turning a roadblock into a new starting point. Where normal thinking demands immediate proof, lateral thinking invites you to withhold judgment and explore more broadly.

Though not meant to replace logical reasoning, this method complements it. Where logic refines an idea, lateral thinking can radically uproot it for fresh insights. Used together, they form a flexible mode of problem solving.

You cannot dig a hole in a different place by digging the same one deeper.

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What is Lateral Thinking about?

Lateral Thinking: Creativity Step by Step, penned by the distinguished author Edward de Bono, beckons readers into a world where the boundaries of logical thinking are gracefully stretched beyond traditional constraints.

In a society dominated by structured reasoning, this book offers an inviting alternative through the art of lateral thinking. It deconstructs conventional problem-solving approaches, urging individuals to perceive challenges from unconventional perspectives. With meticulously crafted exercises, de Bono coaches readers on how to deceptively simplify problems, embrace unpredictability, and reshape their preconceptions.

The essence of this book lies in its capability to push creativity to the forefront as a dynamic tool for innovation. Readers will find themselves enlightened, equipped with strategies to experiment with randomness, adopt reverse thinking, and ultimately harness creativity in a formulaic-free manner. This is not just about thinking differently — it is about igniting transformative insights in everyday situations.

Review of Lateral Thinking

Edward de Bono's Lateral Thinking: Creativity Step by Step skillfully challenges the very bedrock of systematic reasoning by inviting readers to explore creativity from untapped realms. The core strength of this compelling book lies in its offering of practical tools that are readily applicable across diverse disciplines and problems. From stimulating random stimulation to questioning set patterns, these techniques embolden readers to navigate the world with newfound confidence. De Bono's writing remains approachable yet intellectually stimulating, striking a balance between scholarly insight and user-friendly methodology.

The book's crux revolves around its ability to seamlessly merge theoretical thought with actionable strategies, instantly making it relevant for thinkers in all walks of life. It serves not only as an intellectual guidebook for educators and employees but also as an indispensable resource for innovators and entrepreneurs constantly seeking fresh angles to approach stagnant challenges. Whether it is the informal setting of brainstorming sessions or the structured environment of organizational strategies, this book comprehensively enhances creative problem-solving capabilities.

This piece comes highly recommended to those willing to embrace novel approaches. It's a treasure trove of ingenuity that motivates readers to pursue creativity with vigor and novelty, fostering a mindset that thrives on limitless possibilities.

Who should read Lateral Thinking?

Educators and Academic Professionals: Those seeking to usher creative methodologies into classrooms and curriculums.
Corporate Leaders and Employees: Individuals aiming to foster innovative thinking within business environments.
Entrepreneurs and Start-up Innovators: Aspiring business owners in search of unique problem-solving techniques to distinguish themselves.
Creative Professionals: Designers, writers, and artists looking to break through creative blocks with unconventional strategies.
Learners and Students: Curious minds eager to develop skills that bridge knowledge with creativity in actionable ways.

About the author

Edward de Bono, PhD, was a renowned physician and commentator known for originating the term "lateral thinking." He held faculty appointments at several prestigious universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, London, and Harvard, and was a professor at the University of Malta, the University of Pretoria, and Dublin City University. With over 50 years of experience, he wrote 85 books translated into 46 languages, including "Lateral Thinking: Creativity Step by Step," and developed influential methods such as the Six Thinking Hats technique. He was also nominated for the Nobel Prize for Economics in 2005 and was recognized as one of the 250 people who had contributed most to humanity.