Is thinking a matter of intelligence or a skill that can be taught deliberately? Can thinking be taught directly as a curriculum subject in schools? Edward de Bono has done more than anyone to pioneer the direct teaching of thinking as a skill. In many countries an increasing number of schools are putting thinking on to the curriculum. Research shows that as little as seven hours’ instruction can have significant effect on the performance of pupils. When this book was first published these matters were controversial. Today the teaching of thinking, thanks in large part to Edward de Bono, is firmly established in many countries as a necessary part of education. Teaching knowledge is not enough. In order to survive and thrive in a complex world every youngster leaving school needs to be equipped with basic thinking skills. Just being good at argument and critical thinking is not enough.