How to Think Like Einstein
by A. Ernest Mance

“The significant problems we face cannot be solved at the same level of thinking we were at when we created them.” -Albert Einstein

To know how Einstein’s brain worked is to understand and capture the essence of innovation itself. It is with this understanding of human genius that Scott Thorpe has composed How to Think Like Einstein, an important guide to breaking the rules and solving real-life problems. Thorpe’s work is presented as a constructive collection of actual Einstein techniques—tricks and tools—developed to unmask our highest levels of inner creativity. The book is unfortunately laced in a glib, self-help, ‘Get Smart for Dummies’ glossy format.

Notwithstanding marketing techniques, the author’s “rule-breaking” strategies for personal success are extremely credible, written with the confidence of a practicing scientist and open-minded Eastern philosopher. Each technique that Thorpe explores reinforces a philosophical and/or artistic faith in the mental energy of every human individual alive and thinking. Thorpe’s vast study of scientific theory aids his work in revealing certain truths about our inherent mental capabilities—capabilities that are too often squandered by “conforming to our common sense.” Thorpe’s answer is to simply behave in direct opposition to the various rules and regulations that govern our daily lives.

Einstein’s ‘techniques,’ as illustrated by Thorpe, can help some curious readers use their imagination to break out of “rule-ruts” by finding new and innovative solutions. One of Thorpe’s suggestions is that artists use every possible medium—crayon, paint, pencil, etc.—to express artistic ideas. These techniques call upon the use of the full imagination and natural instincts to bring about change and innovative success in this “logical” world we all work, live and die in and explore from day to day.

How to Think Like Einstein is an open invitation to students and teachers alike. The expressive style that Thorpe uses in writing this book extends to the creative tendencies and curiosity of people of every age, regardless of education level.

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