How to Fly a Horse

How to Fly a Horse

How to Fly a Horse: The Secret History of Creation, Invention, and Discovery is a non-fiction book that delves into the processes and challenges of creativity, invention, and discovery. Written by Kevin Ashton, a British technology pioneer known for coining the term "Internet of Things" and his contributions to digital innovation, the book was published in 2015. How to Fly a Horse breaks down the myths surrounding the moments of creation and the individuals behind innovations, arguing that the act of creation is a cumulative process involving hard work, persistence, and the contributions of many rather than the sudden insights of a gifted few.

Summary

How to Fly a Horse presents a series of narratives and analyses focusing on the nature of creative thinking and the innovation process. Ashton challenges the romantic notion of the "lone genius" by showcasing how major breakthroughs are the result of collaborative effort and incremental improvements. The title itself is a metaphor for the seemingly impossible feats that humanity has achieved through creativity and perseverance. Ashton uses historical anecdotes and personal experiences to illustrate that anyone is capable of creating and innovating, provided they are willing to put in the effort and face the inevitable failures along the way.

Themes

The book explores several key themes:

• The Myth of the Lone Genius: Ashton debunks the idea that innovation is the domain of solitary geniuses, instead highlighting the collaborative and iterative nature of most discoveries.
• The Importance of Persistence: The narrative emphasizes that failure and perseverance are integral to the creative process.
• Democratization of Creation: Ashton argues that the ability to create and innovate is not restricted to a select few but is accessible to anyone willing to engage in the process.
• The Role of Society in Innovation: The book also touches on how societal attitudes and support systems can either foster or hinder creativity and innovation.

Reception

How to Fly a Horse has been well-received for its insightful analysis and engaging storytelling. Critics have praised Ashton's ability to demystify the creative process and make the case that innovation is within the reach of all. However, some have argued that the book could have delved deeper into the mechanisms of how to foster creativity on a systemic level.

Impact

The book has contributed to ongoing discussions about innovation, creativity, and the nature of discovery. It is often cited in discussions about educational reform, organizational innovation, and the development of creative cultures within companies.

See Also

• Creativity
• Innovation
• Invention
• Discovery (observation)
• Internet of Things
• Kevin Ashton

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