ANSWER

"A lateral thinker is someone who approaches problems, questions, or situations from unusual, indirect, or non-traditional angles, rather than following the most obvious or conventional line of reasoning."

"Characteristics of a lateral thinker

"A lateral thinker often:

• Challenges assumptions that others take for granted.
• Looks for alternative explanations and possibilities.
• Connects ideas from different fields or experiences.
• Asks "What if?" and "Why not?" questions.
• Sees opportunities where others see obstacles.
• Is willing to consider unconventional solutions.

"Example

"Suppose a room is too dark.

"Conventional (vertical) thinking:

• Buy a brighter light bulb.
• Add another lamp.

"Lateral thinking:

• Paint the walls a lighter color.
• Use mirrors to reflect existing light.
• Rearrange furniture to maximize natural light.
• Question whether the room needs to be used for the same purpose at all.

"Simple definition

A lateral thinker is a person who habitually looks beyond obvious answers and explores creative, unconventional ways of understanding or solving problems."

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"The term was popularized by Edward de Bono, who described lateral thinking as a way of solving problems through creativity, insight, and looking at issues from new perspectives rather than relying solely on step-by-step logical analysis."

"Lateral thinkers are often found among inventors, entrepreneurs, scientists, artists, campaigners, and people who challenge established systems or ways of doing things. Based on the themes you've raised in previous discussions—questioning assumptions, examining systems, and looking for connections that others may overlook—you might describe yourself as someone who often uses lateral thinking approaches."

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Dr Edward de Bono
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_de_Bono

"You can analyse the past, but you need to design the future."
https://www.debono.com/
 

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