The work of the Dutch Benedictine monk and architect Hans van der Laan (1904–1991) offers significant insights into the ways in which objects address the complexity of human physical, cognitive, and social needs. Van der Laan developed several strong lines of thought, three of which are introduced here: the quest for a theory of architecture, the establishment of a three-dimensional system of analogies called the Plastic Number, and analogy as the driving force of human thought. This triad of intrinsically connected intellectual strategies represents his most important 'organs of thought' and is rooted in careful observation of phenomena as they present themselves, rather than relying on conventional beliefs. Van der Laan's organs of thought lead us to re-examine the origins of human creation, prompting a deeper inquiry into our perceptual and cognitive response to the vastness of our surrounding environment. Based on this, van der Laan develops a unique philosophy of culture and design that includes considerations of the relationship between nature, culture, and religious ritual. Although this book is informative, its primary aim is to be formative. Drawing on van der Laan's organs of thought, the authors develop a methodology for exploring the theory of the Plastic Number and the many ways in which we perceive and interpret analogy. By reintegrating playful creativity and intellectual exploration into architectural education and design practice, this book serves as a gateway to a deeper understanding of the impacts of the built environment on human behavior and the various ways in which the human mind perceives and decodes objects.