Six thinking hats

A novel approach to better thinking processes from the father of lateral thinking, Six Thinking Hats suggests that through the utilization of ""map-making"" techniques in thinking, a more complete, objective product results. Accustomed to ""Western style"" thinking, which entails mostly argumentative interactions, managers and other business types are missing out on a more productive and precise form of communicative thinking. The map-making scheme embodies the six-hat concept, which assigns unique qualities to each of the six ingredients or levels of rational thinking. Essentially a dynamic system that requires a cognitive effort on the user's part, separating the various ingredients of thought is, in real terms, much more complicated than de Bono suggests. The six thinking hats, when studied individually, each represents a singular level of the overall thought process. Briefly, White hat--facts and figures; Red hat--emotions and feelings; Black hat--devil's advocate; Yellow hat--brightness and optimism; Green hat--creativity; Blue hat--control. The map-making procedure, integral to the lateral thinking concept, requires the establishment of each layer, sequentially, until the complete thought emerges (an idea similar to the color layering process in map-making). One or more individual contributors could supply the layers comprising the finished thought, which is also representative of ""Japanese Style"" thinking, according to de Bono. Practically difficult and awkward to perform, lateral thinking, as proposed by de Bono, is not about to take Corporate America by storm. It is, however, a must read for de Bono enthusiasts and others who care to invest much time--and frustration--in working with this innovative process. Copyright ©Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.