Conceptual Blockbusting: A Guide to Better Ideas

James Adams's unique approach to generating ideas and solving problems has captivated, inspired, and guided thousands of people from all walks of life. Now, twenty-five years after its original publication, Conceptual Blockbusting has never been more relevant, powerful, or fresh. Integrating insights from the worlds of psychology, engineering, management, art, and philosophy, Adams identifies the key blocks (perceptual, emotional, cultural, environmental, intellectual, and expressive) that prevent us from realizing the full potential of our fertile minds. Employing unconventional exercises and other interactive elements, Adams shows individuals, teams, and organizations how to overcome these blocks, embrace alternative ways of thinking about complex problems, and celebrate the joy of creativity. With new examples and contemporary references, Conceptual Blockbusting is guaranteed to introduce a new generation of readers to a world of new possibilities.

James L. Adams is professor emeritus at Stanford University, where he has held a variety of administrative posts, taught courses on design and creativity, and won many teaching awards. Trained as an engineer and artist, he has been employed as a design engineer by several companies, as well as consulting for and coaching groups in the private and public sector around the world. He lives on the Stanford campus.