Creativity and problem-solving
It is only afterward that a new idea seems reasonable. To begin with, it usually seems unreasonable.
— Isaac Asimov (1920–1992), "How Do People Get New Ideas?" (1959)

Creativity and problem-solving

What it means

New ideas usually look unreasonable at first and only seem sensible afterwards. Early resistance is a normal part of originality.

About the author

Isaac Asimov — American writer and biochemist (1920–1992).

Source and verification

Source
"How Do People Get New Ideas?" (1959)
Reference
Isaac Asimov on Wikiquote
Checked
Wording and source taken from the sourced section of the author’s Wikiquote page, which cites the work given here (accessed 2026-10-11).
Copyright
Short quotation from a work that is still in copyright, reproduced briefly for commentary with full attribution. Rights remain with the author or their estate.

The explanation above is ToDoMatriX’s own reading of the quote, not the author’s words.

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