Out of Our Minds Book Summary - Out of Our Minds Book explained in key points
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Out of Our Minds summary

Learning to be Creative

4.4 (71 ratings)
15 mins

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'Out of Our Minds' by Ken Robinson explores the limitations of the current education system and proposes a more creative and personalized approach to learning. The book provides compelling arguments for a radical shift towards a more innovative and diverse curriculum.

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    Out of Our Minds
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    We’re in an age of revolutionary change, and creativity is essential for being able to adapt.

    In less than a lifetime, there’s been a world of change. Today, when you take a look at your iPhone, you have more computing power in the palm of your hand than was available on the entire planet in 1940.

    And the pace of development is only increasing. So much so, that the speed of today’s technological evolution is truly extraordinary.

    If we look at the past 3,000 years as if it were the past 12 hours, every minute would equal 50 years. So it would only be three minutes ago that we moved beyond the antiquated transportation of sailboats and horse-driven carriages.

    Two and a half minutes ago the first automobiles appeared and 30 seconds later the first powered airplane took flight. Fifty seconds ago was the 1969 moon landing, and just one second ago, in 2010, the first unmanned spacecraft that could make its own landings was launched.

    If we turn our attention to communication, we see even faster progress.

    While the first PC was invented 41 seconds ago, the internet began just 25 seconds ago and SMS messaging arrived just 3 seconds after that.

    Clearly, today’s technology has come a long way in just a short matter of time, and even a common modern digital watch has more power and memory than NASA’s 1969 Apollo Moonlander.

    Since today’s technology is so quick to advance, the competitive edge will really come down to who has the best creative ideas. This makes creativity an essential skill for any future business leader to learn.

    Likewise, as businesses and trends continue to rapidly evolve, having one job over the course of an entire career will become a thing of the past. It will be those with flexible and adaptable talents who will flourish in tomorrow’s job market.

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    What is Out of Our Minds about?

    Out of Our Minds (2001) shines a light on a fast-paced and constantly changing business world. In particular, it examines how technology has advanced and changed the way we do business, while our public education system has remained stuck in the days of the industrial revolution. It takes a look at what changes need to be made so that schools can prepare the next generation for the creative challenges that lie ahead.

    Out of Our Minds Review

    Out of Our Minds (2001) explores the importance of creativity in the modern world and the urgent need for innovation. Here's why this book is worth reading:

    • With its compelling arguments and thought-provoking insights, it challenges conventional wisdom, inspiring readers to think differently.
    • The book offers a refreshing perspective on education, highlighting the need for nurturing creativity in schools and workplaces.
    • Through captivating stories and examples, it demonstrates how creativity can drive success and transform industries, making it a compelling read for anyone seeking inspiration.

    Best quote from Out of Our Minds

    The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. ...As our case is new, so we must think anew and act anew. - Abraham Lincoln, 1862

    —Ken Robinson
    example alt text

    Who should read Out of Our Minds?

    • Individuals facing creative blocks
    • Business leaders and innovators who want to build creative teams
    • Parents worried about the current education system

    About the Author

    Sir Ken Robinson is an internationally renowned leader in the field of human resources and creative development. He is Professor Emeritus of Education at the University of Warwick and has worked as a consultant for international agencies, governments, Fortune 500 companies and a variety of cultural organizations. His TED talks on education reform have been viewed by millions.

    © Ken Robinson: Out of Our Minds copyright 2001, John Wiley & Sons Inc. Used by permission of John Wiley & Sons Inc. and shall not be made available to any unauthorized third parties.

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    Out of Our Minds FAQs 

    What is the main message of Out of Our Minds?

    The main message of Out of Our Minds is that creativity is a crucial skill for navigating the challenges of the modern world.

    How long does it take to read Out of Our Minds?

    The reading time for Out of Our Minds varies depending on the reader's speed. However, the Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.

    Is Out of Our Minds a good book? Is it worth reading?

    Out of Our Minds is a captivating read that challenges traditional views on education and encourages readers to embrace their creativity.

    Who is the author of Out of Our Minds?

    The author of Out of Our Minds is Ken Robinson.

    What to read after Out of Our Minds?

    If you're wondering what to read next after Out of Our Minds, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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    • Finding Your Element by Ken Robinson
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    • Buddhism – Plain and Simple by Steve Hagen
    • How To Live An Extraordinary Life by Anthony Pompliano
    • How to Decide by Annie Duke
    • The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss
    • Hardcore Self Help by Robert Duff