The prerequisite of originality is the art of forgetting, at the proper moment, what we know

The prerequisite of originality is the art of forgetting, at the proper moment, what we know

Arthur Koestler, a Hungarian-British author and journalist, was known for his insightful observations on human behavior and society. One of his most famous quotes is, “The prerequisite of originality is the art of forgetting, at the proper moment, what we know.” This statement encapsulates the essence of creativity and innovation, highlighting the importance of letting go of preconceived notions and beliefs in order to think outside the box.

Koestler believed that in order to come up with truly original ideas, one must be willing to unlearn what they already know. This requires a certain level of humility and open-mindedness, as well as a willingness to challenge one’s own assumptions and biases. By letting go of our preconceptions, we create space for new ideas to emerge and for our creativity to flourish.

The art of forgetting, as Koestler describes it, is not about erasing our memories or knowledge, but rather about being able to set them aside temporarily in order to explore new possibilities. It is about being able to approach a problem or a situation with fresh eyes and an open mind, free from the constraints of our past experiences and beliefs.

Koestler’s emphasis on the importance of forgetting what we know is particularly relevant in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world. In a society that is constantly bombarded with information and opinions, it can be easy to get stuck in our ways and rely on what we already know. However, true innovation and originality require us to be willing to let go of our preconceptions and embrace uncertainty.