In this chapter, Edward de Bono describes the disadvantages of constantly striving to be correct and the barriers it creates for new ideas and creativity. When I first began reading this chapter, I couldn’t comprehend the idea of persisting with a premise knowing that it is wrong. From a logical standpoint, it seemed counterproductive to invest time and effort into something that is fundamentally wrong.
However, as I delved deeper into de Bono’s arguments and reflected on the ideas presented, I started to understand the value in considering an idea that may not be objectively right but could potentially lead to a correct conclusion. This perspective challenged my preconceived and school-taught linear nature of problem-solving (vertical thinking) and painted a better picture of what it means to think laterally. I saw how it was a more exploratory and open-minded approach. By allowing ourselves to entertain “wrong” ideas, we open up the possibility of uncovering new insights and transforming our underlying assumptions. I see how this shift in thinking can be valuable in problem-solving, as it encourages us to question established beliefs and explore alternative perspectives.