Published in 1967 by Edward de Bono, the lateral thinking method helps people develop different perspectives on a problem. The core of the approach consists of five ideas: (i) Conventional thought patterns are critically questioned for their exclusive validity and fundamental justification. (ii) The framework conditions are not accepted as unchangeable; rather, with the help of the approach, possibilities are actively sought to improve the initial situation. (iii) Any mental associations are valued. (iv) It is allowed, and even desired, if both the perception of the problem and the classification of possible solutions are subjective. (v) Decisions in favor of possibilities that exclude other possibilities are not accepted because they already mentally block opportunities.