How do we come upon new ideas?

Prof Peter Hubral has more than once mused in the columns of First Break on the nature of creative thinking in science, based primarily on tenets of Chinese Tao philosophy which over many centuries have met with a surprising degree of corroboration from iconic scientists, philosophers, and writers. We recognize that this is not familiar territory for many of our readers, but nonetheless believe the ideas expressed deserve consideration by any scientist engaged in research and problem-solving activities.