51. Problem Reversals
Background
Sometimes we have trouble solving problems because we attack them head-on and
become immersed. The result is that we become too close to the problem and find our-
selves unable to generate new perspectives.
This can’t-see-the-forest-for-the-trees outcome can be avoided by entering the forest
from a different direction. Change direction and we change perspectives. Instead of being
blocked by our initial, unproductive perspectives, we will discover new ways of seeing
our problems. New ideas then will flow.
Problem reversals have been widely used ever since brainstorming was popularized
by Alex Osborn in the 1930s. Creativity consultant Edward de Bono (1972) also advocated
reversals as one way to achieve his concept of “lateral thinking.”
Stand-up comedians and cartoonists often use reversals to create the unexpected. Just
look at Gary Larson’s “The Far Side.” One of his cartoons, for instance, depicts rifle-hold-
ing bears hunting people.
Everyday creative problem solving also benefits from reversing a problem statement.
A popular approach to law enforcement is to reverse the problem of going out and get-
ting the bad guys. Some police officers instead think of ways to get the bad guys to come
to them.
Sounds far-fetched, doesn’t it? Why would wanted criminals come to the police? One
result of reversing thinking on this problem is for police to send out invitations to a spe-
cial “party.” The “guests” are arrested when they show up. Another is to notify wanted
people they have won a prize and must show up in person to claim it. Thus, a simple
change in problem definition provides a hot idea.Objectives
- To help participants generate as many creative ideas as possible
- To help participants learn how to use the activities to generate ideas
Participants
Small groups of four to seven people eachGrab Bag: Miscellaneous Activities 221
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