On the Importance of Conceptual Thinking Outside the Simulation Box

TL;DR

This paper emphasizes the importance of creative conceptual thinking in architecture and engineering, advocating for mentorship to foster innovative perspectives beyond traditional blueprints.

Contribution

It highlights the need for integrating conceptual thinking into scientific research and engineering, promoting mentorship to develop innovative architectural skills.

Findings

Creative thinking enhances engineering design processes.

Mentorship fosters innovative architectural perspectives.

Traditional blueprints may hinder creative problem-solving.

Abstract

Any ambitious construction project requires architects for its design and engineers who apply the design to the real world. As scientific research shifts towards large groups which focus on the engineering aspects of linking data to existing models, architectural skills are becoming rare among young theorists. Senior researchers should mentor qualified students and postdocs to think creatively about the big picture without unwarranted loyalty to ancient blueprints from past generations of architects.