Greatness

The quote above has often been attributed to Albert Einstein; however its origin is likely Bob Samples. In 1977 Samples published an article entitled “Mind Cycles and Learning” where this statement appears. Rather than a direct quote, he was attempting to capture Einstein’s general position regarding the power of our intuition and the role of rational thought. I know to some the origin of this quote is extremely important. However, rather than get in the weeds regarding the attribution, I prefer to revel in the truth of the statement. Is it any less true if Einstein did not make this exact statement?

Our intuition is the source of innovation and discovery. It is the mechanism we use to anticipate what lies beyond empirically established facts. Intuition is largely based on our feelings, emotions and reactions to various, often complex situations or phenomenon.

Even if one attempts to suppress their intuition, it proceeds and directs any rational pursuit. Our intuition is an important, critical capacity. Educational models and creative methodologies that neglect or discount intuition, fail to develop, train and refine this vital cognitive tool. Unfortunately, design education has largely abandoned the subjective in favor of lesser approaches that can be more clearly measured. We discourage the use of expressive language and avoid discussing or evaluating how spaces or objects make us feel. It is much easier and less messy to analyze an energy model, preform a calculation or follow a rigidly prescribed process — turning one’s back on the sacred gift. All great innovative works are knowingly or unknowingly guided by an intuitive leap.