Edward de Bono, born in Malta in 1933, was a psychologist, physician, and philosopher, best known for coining the term “lateral thinking.” With degrees in medicine and psychology from prestigious institutions like Oxford and Cambridge, De Bono became a pioneer in creative problem-solving techniques. His innovative methods, particularly those found in Six Thinking Hats and Lateral Thinking, have been adopted worldwide by corporations, governments, and educational institutions. His approach has been instrumental in reshaping how individuals and organizations tackle complex problems by encouraging non-linear thinking.

De Bono authored over 50 books, making substantial contributions to the fields of psychology, education, and business. He was frequently invited to speak at conferences and consult with world leaders on topics ranging from economic strategies to education reform. His work has had a lasting impact on both individual and organizational approaches to creativity, emphasizing that lateral thinking is not an innate talent but a skill that can be cultivated through practice.