In the coming weeks, we will be sharing insights on the TED Conference from past attendees, as well as guests of the upcoming TEDIndia conference in order to share the experience of TED, and the excitement of having TED in India. Our first interview is with Intuit co-founder, Scott Cook.

Founded in 1983, Intuit is a US-based software company that develops accounting and tax preparation tools and related services for accountants and individuals. In its 25th Anniversary Issue, Inc. Magazine called Cook 'one of America's 25 most fascinating entrepreneurs.'

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Lakshmi's Lounge: What is your vision for India in 10 years?

Scott Cook: When India's greatest export are its ideas.

LL: What is the biggest idea impacting India today?

SC: I’d say a class of “180 degree reversals” of ideas.  Those happen when a generally accepted belief flips 180 degrees so that the exact opposite becomes generally accepted.  For example, aerobic exercise is now prescribed for heart attack recovery; formerly just the opposite was prescribed:  bed rest.   Nandan Nilekani describes how modern India’s success is based on a handful of 180 degree reversals of generally accepted ideas.   See the first third of his book,  'Imagining India.'

LL: Where do you go for inspiration?

SC: TED!

LL: What has taken your breath away lately?

SC: Learning last week that China has more millionaires than the U.S.