A fictional dialogue between Edward De Bono and Jean-Paul Sartre proposing a combined approach using Lateral Thinking and Existentialism to solve mankind’s problems…
Edward De Bono: Jean-Paul, I have long believed that many of humanity’s problems stem from habitual, linear thinking. My method of Lateral Thinking encourages looking beyond traditional patterns to generate new possibilities.
Jean-Paul Sartre: Indeed, Edward. In existentialism, we focus on individual freedom and responsibility. People must acknowledge their freedom to choose and create meaning despite – or perhaps because of – the absurdity and confusion of existence.
Edward: Precisely. But too often, individuals and societies are trapped in rigid frameworks, unable to see alternatives. Lateral Thinking can break these frameworks by deliberately shifting perspectives, provoking creative solutions where none seemed possible.
Jean-Paul: But creativity alone is insufficient. Existentialism insists that each person must confront the angst of freedom – the realization there is no inherent essence or preordained answer. Only by embracing this burden can authentic choices arise.
Edward: So what if we combine our approaches? Teaching people first to break free of their mental constraints through lateral challenges, then guiding them to own the responsibility for their choices existentially?
Jean-Paul: A powerful synthesis. Lateral Thinking as the tool for opening new horizons, and existentialism as the moral framework ensuring those new possibilities are met with authentic engagement, not mere intellectual curiosity or escapism.
Edward: That would enable societies to innovate thoughtfully, not just randomly. Problem-solving grounded in creative freedom yet accountable to authentic human values.
Jean-Paul: And by integrating these methods in education and leadership, we could foster a generation capable of genuine transformation – aware of their freedom, equipped with creative strategies, embracing responsibility for shaping their world.
Edward: A fusion for the future – a practical philosophy and a creative methodology, together poised to solve mankind’s pressing dilemmas.
Jean-Paul: Then let us begin this collaboration. For it is not merely ideas but their application that will alter the course of human existence.
Please note : Edward de Bono and Jean-Paul Sartre did not meet in real life. They did not have any public association and were active in different fields, with de Bono being known for his work on lateral thinking and Sartre as an existentialist philosopher who died in 1980.
