Edward de Bono

Edward de Bono was a Maltese physician, psychologist, author, inventor, and consultant. He is best known for developing the concept of 'lateral thinking,' which encourages solving problems through an indirect and creative approach. De Bono wrote extensively on the subject of creative thinking and innovation, and his work has been influential in various fields including education and business.

Books

Ranked Books All Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. Tactics

    The Art and Science of Success
    Cover of 'Tactics' by Edward de Bono

    In this insightful exploration of strategic thinking, the author delves into the art of effective decision-making and problem-solving. The book provides readers with a comprehensive toolkit of techniques designed to enhance creativity and foster innovative solutions in various scenarios. By emphasizing the importance of lateral thinking, the author encourages individuals to break free from conventional patterns and embrace new perspectives. Through practical examples and exercises, readers are guided to develop a more flexible mindset, enabling them to navigate complex challenges with confidence and clarity.

    The 17113th Greatest Book of All Time
    Purchase from Amazon

  2. 2. Six Action Shoes English Language Edition By De Bono, Edward Hardcover

    A Guide to Effective Decision-Making
    Cover of 'Six Action Shoes English Language Edition By De Bono, Edward Hardcover' by Edward de Bono

    This insightful guide introduces a unique framework for decision-making and problem-solving, using the metaphor of six different types of shoes to represent various action styles. Each shoe symbolizes a distinct approach, from the practical and efficient to the compassionate and empathetic, encouraging readers to adapt their strategies to suit different situations. By understanding and applying these diverse methods, individuals can enhance their ability to navigate complex challenges, improve communication, and foster more effective collaboration in both personal and professional environments.

  3. 3. Lateral Thinking

    Creativity Step by Step
    Cover of 'Lateral Thinking' by Edward de Bono

    This insightful book delves into the concept of lateral thinking, a method of problem-solving that encourages creativity and innovation by challenging conventional thought patterns. It introduces readers to techniques that help break free from linear thinking, allowing for the exploration of alternative solutions and perspectives. Through practical examples and exercises, the book empowers individuals to cultivate a mindset that embraces change, fosters adaptability, and enhances decision-making skills in both personal and professional contexts.

    Purchase from Bookshop.org

  4. 4. Teaching Thinking

    Cover of 'Teaching Thinking' by Edward de Bono

    A practical guide that frames thinking as a teachable skill, offering a structured classroom program with simple tools—such as PMI (Plus, Minus, Interesting), CAF (Consider All Factors), OPV (Other People’s Views), APC (Alternatives, Possibilities, Choices), and C&S (Consequences and Sequel)—to improve perception, decision making, creativity, and problem solving. It emphasizes regular practice, teacher facilitation, and integrating these methods across the curriculum rather than treating them as add-ons. Clear lesson formats, exercises, and assessment ideas help shift attention from merely finding right answers to exploring options, priorities, and outcomes in a deliberate, transferable way.