Meaning: This quote by Edward de Bono, a psychologist known for his work in the field of creative thinking, touches upon the distinction between intelligence and thinking skills. He suggests that intelligence and thinking ability are not necessarily synonymous, drawing an analogy between the power of a car and the way it is driven. In essence, de Bono is emphasizing the importance of not only possessing intelligence but also being able to effectively apply it through skilled thinking.

The first part of the quote, "Many highly intelligent people are poor thinkers," challenges the common assumption that intelligence equates to adept and effective thinking. It suggests that intelligence alone does not guarantee the ability to think critically, creatively, or strategically. Individuals may possess high intellectual capacity but struggle with logical reasoning, problem-solving, or decision-making. This notion aligns with the concept of multiple intelligences, popularized by psychologist Howard Gardner, which emphasizes that intelligence encompasses a wider range of abilities beyond traditional measures such as IQ.

Conversely, de Bono states, "Many people of average intelligence are skilled thinkers," highlighting the idea that one's thinking skills can be independent of their level of intellectual capacity. This challenges the stereotype that intelligence is the sole determinant of one's cognitive abilities. It suggests that individuals with average intellectual capabilities can excel in their thinking skills, demonstrating proficiency in areas such as critical analysis, innovation, and effective decision-making.

The analogy "The power of a car is separate from the way the car is driven" serves as a metaphor to illustrate de Bono's point. It underscores the disconnect between potential (represented by the power of the car) and actual performance (represented by the way the car is driven). In this context, the power of the car symbolizes intelligence, while the way the car is driven represents thinking skills. The analogy emphasizes that possessing a powerful intellect does not automatically translate to effective and skillful thinking. It reinforces the idea that the application and utilization of intelligence through skilled thinking are essential for achieving desirable outcomes.

De Bono's quote invites reflection on the importance of developing and honing thinking skills, regardless of one's level of intelligence. It challenges the traditional emphasis placed solely on intellectual capacity and encourages a shift towards recognizing and nurturing the ability to think critically, creatively, and strategically. This aligns with the growing emphasis on fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills in education and professional development, acknowledging the significance of these skills in navigating complex challenges and driving innovation.

In conclusion, Edward de Bono's quote serves as a thought-provoking reminder of the distinction between intelligence and thinking skills. It prompts a reevaluation of the traditional assumptions about intelligence and underscores the importance of cultivating adept and effective thinking abilities. By emphasizing the disconnect between potential and performance, de Bono's quote encourages individuals to recognize the value of skilled thinking and its impact on harnessing the full potential of intelligence.