Business Quote by Edward de Bono
“We may need to solve problems not by removing the cause but by designing the way forward even if the cause remains in place.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Lateral Thinking, 1970
Solving problems may require designing new pathways rather than eliminating the original cause, allowing coexistence with the problem.
In simple terms: Design solutions without removing the cause.
Key Takeaway
Create alternative approaches that work alongside existing issues.
Themes
problem solving
design
innovation
adaptation
systems
Mood
analytical
creative
Type
strategic
inspirational
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- software bugs
- environmental policy
- organizational change
Key Concepts
lateral thinking
systems design
creative engineering
Questions to Reflect On
- What problem could be addressed by redesigning processes?
- How can you integrate new solutions without erasing the old?
A Different Perspective
Some causes are entrenched and cannot be removed easily.
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![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)