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Lateral thinking is a manner of solving problems using an indirect and creative approach via reasoning that is not immediately obvious. Synonymous to thinking outside the box, it involves ideas that may not be obtainable using only traditional step-by-step logic.[1] The cutting of the Gordian Knot is a classical example.
The term was first used in 1967 by Maltese psychologist Edward de Bono who used the Judgement of Solomon, the Nine Dots Puzzle, and the sewing machine (automating the work rather than adding more workers) as examples, among many others, of lateral thinking.[2]
Lateral thinking deliberately distances itself from Vertical Thinking, the traditional method for problem solving.
| Vertical Thinking | Lateral Thinking | |
|---|---|---|
| linear | yes | no |
| pattern | develop an existing pattern | restructure an existing pattern |
| direction | stepwise and methodical | multidirectional and creative |
| uncertainty tolerated | no | yes |
| rewards for | depth of knowledge | breadth of knowledge |
| restricted by relevant information | yes | no |
| novel approaches welcomed | no | yes |
De Bono argues lateral thinking entails a switch-over from a familiar pattern to a new, unexpected one. Such insight sometimes takes the form of humour[4] but can also be cultivated.[5]
Critics have characterized lateral thinking as a pseudo-scientific concept, arguing de Bono's core ideas have never been rigorously tested or corroborated.[6][7]
- ^ "Oxford English Dictionary: Lateral thinking". Oxford University Press. Archived from the original on 20 December 2016. Retrieved 19 December 2016.
- ^ de Bono, Edward (1971). The Use of Lateral Thinking. Avon Books. ISBN 978-0140137880.
- ^ James S. Hernandez; Prathibha Varkey (2008). "Vertical versus Lateral Thinking" (newsletter). May June 2008: The Physician Executive. p. 26. Retrieved 12 November 2024.
{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: location (link) - ^ Rodgers, Chris (November 2009). "Blog: The significance of humour – pattern switching and lateral thinking". Informal Coalitions.
- ^ de Bono, Edward. "Teaching Creative Thinking 3 – deBono". de Bono.
- ^ Melechi, Antonio (11 June 2020). Weintraub, Pam (ed.). "Lateral thinking is classic pseudoscience, derivative and untested". Aeon Essays. Aeon.co.
- ^ Diebold, John (18 November 1968). "Snoopy or the Tiger?". New York Magazine. New York Media, LLC. p. 61. Retrieved 5 June 2017.