Concept
Lateral Thinking
Creativity & Learning
Psychology & MindWhat is lateral thinking?
Lateral thinking is a deliberate creative problem-solving method that generates novel ideas by looking at scenarios from unorthodox angles and escaping traditional linear logic. Formulated by Edward de Bono, it contrasts with vertical thinking by exploring non-obvious cognitive pathways.
In short
Lateral thinking abandons rigid step-by-step analytical reasoning to discover inventive solutions from unexpected vantage points. By challenging underlying assumptions and deliberately introducing conceptual provocations, it enables creative breakthroughs. Organizations foster lateral thinking to solve intractable design and strategic challenges.
Key facts
- Who developed the concept of lateral thinking?
- Malta-born physician and psychologist Edward de Bono coined and formalized the concept in his 1967 writings.
- How does lateral thinking differ from vertical thinking?
- Vertical thinking develops existing ideas through sequential logic, whereas lateral thinking restructures concepts by jumping between unrelated domains.
- How does the editorial apply lateral thinking?
- Patriota contrasts machine logic with lateral human creativity, arguing that artificial intelligence can synthesize data but lacks lateral creative intuition.
Overview
Lateral thinking recognizes that analytical logic operates by perfecting established mental patterns, often trapping thinkers inside intellectual ruts. By disrupting habitual pathways through humor, random association, and provocative reframing, lateral techniques unearth novel creative hypotheses. In modern design leadership, practicing lateral shifts allows teams to bypass stale industry dogmas.
In the Agency editorial
In Issue 5, lateral thinking is identified as the uniquely human cognitive faculty that artificial intelligence models cannot emulate. The author notes that while systems like ChatGPT make lightning-fast vertical calculations, they lack the emotional resonance required for lateral creative synthesis. Cultivating lateral thinking prepares professionals to thrive within an AI-driven economy.
Source editions
Where this entry comes from in the Agency editorial.
- Issue.5 - Coffee Machines in CrisisRead the edition
- Design.0 - Beyond the Surface of FormsRead the edition
Also from these editions: concepts
Also from these editions: terms
Related terms
- aestheticsnoun
- A set of principles concerned with the nature and appreciation of beauty, artistic taste, and style.
- noveltynoun
- The quality of being new, original, or unusual, or a unique item that catches public fascination.
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Sources
- Issue.5 - Coffee Machines in Crisis (opens in a new tab), Agency Brasil
- Design.0 - Beyond the Surface of Forms (opens in a new tab), Agency Brasil