Parallel thinking is a concept introduced by Edward de Bono, a psychologist and author known for his work on creative thinking. Parallel thinking is a structured thinking process that encourages individuals in a discussion or problem-solving group to focus on a specific approach or perspective at any one time. Unlike traditional argumentative thinking, which promotes a confrontational stance where participants take opposing views and debate them, parallel thinking aims for cooperation and constructive exploration of a subject.
The most famous tool for parallel thinking developed by de Bono is the “Six Thinking Hats” method. This method uses six different coloured “hats,” with each colour representing a different mode of thinking:
- White Hat:
Focused on facts, figures, and objective information. - Red Hat:
Looks at problems using intuition, gut reaction, and emotion. - Black Hat:
Considers the negative viewpoints, obstacles, and reasons something may not work. - Yellow Hat:
Symbolizes positivity, looking for benefits and feasibility. - Green Hat:
Represents creativity, possibilities, alternatives, and new ideas. - Blue Hat:
Used for managing the thinking process, organizing, and the steps needed to explore the topic further.
By systematically shifting through these perspectives, a group can explore a topic more fully than if they were to approach it from a single angle. This method encourages diverse and creative thinking, minimizes confrontational debate, and helps generate a range of insights and solutions that might not emerge through traditional discussion methods. Parallel thinking is widely used in brainstorming sessions, meetings, and educational settings to enhance collaborative problem-solving and decision-making.
Individually
An individual can practice parallel thinking on their own, using the Six Thinking Hats method or other parallel thinking techniques to explore different perspectives and approaches to problem-solving or decision-making. While the method is often highlighted for its benefits in group settings, it’s equally valuable for individual use.
Applying parallel thinking individually involves consciously adopting each of the six perspectives one at a time to explore a problem or a decision from all angles by using the six hats technique described above.
Conclusion
Parallel thinking, exemplified by Edward de Bono’s Six Thinking Hats method, offers a transformative approach for both groups and individuals seeking to navigate the complexities of decision-making and problem-solving in life. By methodically exploring different perspectives—one at a time—this approach fosters a more holistic understanding of any given situation, encouraging thorough exploration and minimizing the influence of personal bias and confrontational dynamics. For groups, it cultivates a collaborative environment where every voice is heard, and diverse viewpoints are valued, leading to innovative solutions and enhanced team cohesion. Individuals benefit by developing a structured way to dissect problems, harnessing their creativity, and making balanced decisions that consider emotional intuition and factual analysis alike. Ultimately, parallel thinking equips us with a powerful toolkit for tackling life’s challenges with greater clarity, creativity, and consensus, making it a useful asset in both personal and professional realms.