Dan Pink's book is referred to as 'a seminal' work by a number of critics. For me is was really encouraging to find that there are those that not only think the way Dan does but also are able to put it so well into words.
The book seeks to explore the notion that the left dominant thinking that has taken the west through the industrial and information age are now found wanting. He shares his thoughts with the reader and challenges our thinking not only with evidence but with actual things to do!
Dan suggests that "left brain" dominance is giving way to a new world in which "right brain" qualities -inventiveness, empathy, and meaning will predominate. He also argues that we in the west need to be prepared for this change as the impact of automation, outsourcing and abundance mean that western rich nations will need to be much more creative to maintain their position in the world. He identifies six important aptitudes which he feels we need to develop further and these form the framework for successful and fulfilling lives.
The implications of all this spill over into the education system, dominated as it is by "left brain" assessment. Educators are struggling with this issue but against a sea of targets, SAT's and other left brain measures of our children. The thinking in the book will resonate with many educators.
Alan November captured discussions with Dan Pink were he expands on his thinking as it relates to schools, their design and the education system. Alan's discussions are part of the November Learning Podcast series and are available by subscribing through iTunes.
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Sounds very interesting, I'll have to pick it up next time I'm at the book store.
It also seems we make ourselves to busy to even try to be right brained people!
Dave Crogan
http://blog.mlmonlinetips.com
I asked Dan Pink via email whether the ideas he presents in 'A Whole New Mind', were undermined by the comments about Left and Right brain in 'The Brain's Behind It'.
Dan replied by saying:
"Thanks for the note. As you know from reading the book, I discuss
the science as well as the many outlandish claims made about left
brain and right brain. My coverage of the science is pretty
thorough. I say that we use both sides for everything we do, but
over time the two hemispheres have carved out certain specialties.
But even with that, I take pains to note that I'm using the brain as a *metaphor.*
Hope that makes sense.
Cheers,
Dan