Lateral Thinking: A Creative Approach

"This book offers invaluable insights for both teachers and non-teachers alike. Dr. DeBono does not claim to have the ability to transform us all into the calibre of Miltons, Davincis, and Einsteins. However, his techniques provide an alternative to simply sitting around and waiting for the Muse to appear. The truth is, the Muse rarely manifests for most of us, hence the immense value this book holds," as expressed by David Cohen in the Times Educational Supplement.

The book presents the first practical elucidation of the mechanics of creativity, and as a results-oriented bestseller, it trains listeners to move beyond the conventional "vertical" mode of thought, unlocking the potential of lateral thinking.

At the core of the book's argument lies the premise that there are two distinct types of thinking - vertical and lateral. Most of us have been educated to think vertically, progressing logically from one step to the next, consistently working towards the single correct solution to the problem at hand. Rarely have we been taught to cultivate creativity, to generate idea after idea.

Dr. DeBono contends that the function of vertical, logical thinking is to identify and critique what is flawed. It is an exceptionally useful mode of thought, but it is not the only valuable approach. To claim it is the sole valid way of thinking reflects a form of intellectual arrogance that, ironically, impedes the likelihood of creative thinking.

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