A creative problem-solving technique where individuals or groups generate ideas spontaneously without initial criticism or evaluation. The goal is to produce a large quantity of ideas that can later be refined and developed.
Coined in 1953 by advertising executive Alex Osborn in his book 'Applied Imagination.' The term combines 'brain' with 'storming' (attacking vigorously), suggesting an intensive mental assault on a problem to generate creative solutions.
Alex Osborn's original brainstorming rules included 'no criticism during idea generation' and 'quantity over quality,' but modern research suggests that some constructive criticism during the process actually enhances creativity. The technique revolutionized creative thinking in business and education, though its effectiveness continues to be studied and refined.
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