Education

The Element: 8 key ideas

by Ken Robinson

The core ideas of The Element, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.

1. IDEA 1 OF 8

   People thrive in their element

   Robinson argues that people flourish when they find their element, the point where natural talent meets personal passion.

   He believes many people never find it, partly because schools overlook many abilities.

2. IDEA 2 OF 8

   Talent and passion combine

   Robinson explains that the element needs both aptitude, a natural ability, and passion, a love for the activity.

   In his account, neither one is enough alone, and the real element lies where the two meet.

3. IDEA 3 OF 8

   Attitude and chance matter

   Robinson argues that attitude and opportunity also shape whether people find their element.

   In his account, a positive outlook and a lucky meeting with the right person or place can open the door.

4. IDEA 4 OF 8

   A dancer found her way

   Robinson tells of Gillian Lynne, a restless girl who was thought to have a learning problem but was really a dancer.

   She became a famous choreographer. Her story shows how a person's gift can be misread.

5. IDEA 5 OF 8

   Find your tribe

   Robinson argues that people often discover their element through others who share their passion.

   In his view, meeting others who share an interest brings encouragement, ideas and a sense of belonging. Such groups widen what seems possible.

6. IDEA 6 OF 8

   Schools narrow talent

   Robinson argues that school systems favour a narrow range of academic abilities and neglect others, such as art and dance.

   In his view, children whose talents lie elsewhere may be seen as less able, even when they are gifted.

7. IDEA 7 OF 8

   Intelligence is diverse

   Robinson argues that intelligence takes many forms.

   Everyone has different strengths. In his view, a child who is poor at one kind of test may be brilliant in music, movement, design or working with people.

8. IDEA 8 OF 8

   It is never too late

   Robinson shares stories of people who found their element late in life.

   In his account, some people discover their passion in middle age or beyond, after years of doing something else. The search has no age limit.