Why divergent thinkers beat geniuses in the real world | David Epstein

Recent questions

• What is a child prodigy?

  A child prodigy is a young person who demonstrates exceptional talent or ability in a specific area, such as music, mathematics, or sports, at an early age. These individuals often capture public attention and admiration due to their extraordinary skills, leading to a narrative that suggests a linear path to success. However, the reality of development is more complex, as it involves various learning environments and experiences that shape a child's abilities over time. The allure of child prodigies can create unrealistic expectations for parents, who may believe that early specialization guarantees long-term success, when in fact, diverse experiences and adaptability are crucial for sustained growth.

• How can I help my child succeed?

  Helping a child succeed involves providing a supportive environment that encourages exploration and learning across various domains rather than focusing solely on early specialization. Research indicates that children thrive in "kind" environments with clear rules and structured tasks, such as chess, but also need exposure to "wicked" environments where they can learn to navigate ambiguity and delayed feedback. By fostering a broad range of skills and experiences, parents can help their children develop resilience and adaptability, which are essential for success in an ever-changing world. Encouraging personal growth and self-comparison over time can also empower children to focus on their progress rather than solely on external achievements.

• What is lateral thinking?

  Lateral thinking is a problem-solving approach that involves looking at a situation from different perspectives and using creative, indirect methods to find solutions. This concept emphasizes the importance of thinking outside conventional frameworks and combining knowledge from various fields to innovate. A notable example of lateral thinking is Gunpei Yokoi's work at Nintendo, where he utilized existing, well-understood technology to create the Game Boy. This approach not only led to the development of a highly successful product but also demonstrated how merging ideas from different domains can lead to groundbreaking innovations. Lateral thinking encourages individuals to break free from traditional thought patterns and explore new possibilities.

• Why is adaptability important for children?

  Adaptability is crucial for children as it equips them to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world. In an environment where information can be ambiguous and circumstances unpredictable, the ability to adjust and learn from experiences becomes essential. Rather than fixating on long-term goals, children should focus on personal growth by comparing their current selves to their past selves. This mindset fosters resilience and encourages them to embrace change, learn from failures, and develop a broader skill set. By cultivating adaptability, children are better prepared to face challenges and seize opportunities in their future endeavors, ultimately leading to more fulfilling and successful lives.

• What are "kind" and "wicked" environments?

  "Kind" and "wicked" environments refer to different types of learning contexts that influence how individuals develop skills and knowledge. Kind environments are characterized by clear rules, structured tasks, and predictable outcomes, making them conducive to learning specific skills through repetition and practice, such as in chess. In contrast, wicked environments are marked by ambiguity, uncertainty, and delayed feedback, requiring individuals to think critically and adapt to changing circumstances. Both types of environments play a vital role in skill development; while kind environments help build foundational skills, wicked environments challenge individuals to apply their knowledge creatively and flexibly. A balanced exposure to both types of environments can enhance overall learning and adaptability.