What is meant by the term lateral thinking?

Lateral thinking refers to a problem-solving approach that involves viewing a situation from different perspectives and generating creative solutions that are not immediately obvious. Unlike traditional logical reasoning, which follows a linear path, lateral thinking encourages unconventional thinking and the exploration of alternative possibilities. This method often involves breaking down established patterns and assumptions to foster innovation and original ideas. It was popularized by Edward de Bono, who emphasized its importance in creative problem-solving and decision-making.