Case Scenario:
One of the classic debates in physics revolves around the strange behaviour of light. In some experiments, it acts like a wave. In other experiments, it acts like a particle. One approach to this problem is to 'solve' it—to determine once and for all which it is. If the experimental evidence of the past hundred years is any guide, this route will lead to frustration. The other approach is to accept that different experiments yield different results and to hold both as truths—despite that fact that these two truths are contradictory. Allowing for ambiguity frees research for creative 'play'; since the truth of one or the other approach is not at stake, much more creative work can be envisioned. However, just because an approach is creative may not garner it favours, particularly with those who feel strongly one way or the other! In this Discussion, you will consider the relationship between ambiguity and creativity and consider how a person's colleagues react to it in their midst.
Question: It has been shown that tolerance for ambiguity is closely related to creative-thinking skills. In other words, creative persons are not convinced that 'there is only one truth' and are ready to challenge 'the current truth'. Provide two examples of persons facing troubles from rejecting 'the only truth'—one from history and one from your organisation or neighbourhood. Discuss whether they won or lost in their effort—and in what way this occurred.