Final answer:
The statement is false as significant lasting change often involves serious and prolonged thinking, as seen in scientific advancements and strategic social reforms. Critical thinking and careful planning are essential to achieving meaningful progress.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that significant lasting change always occurs without serious, prolonged thinking is False. Major societal and scientific advancements often require deliberate and rigorous thought processes. As exemplified in various contexts, whether it's the methodical evolution in scientific understanding or the strategic planning in social reforms, critical thinking plays a crucial role. For instance, the scientific method is a testament to the significance of thoughtful investigation in fostering scientific breakthroughs. Moreover, historical events, such as the market revolution, led to substantial social and economic changes and involved considerable planning and reflection
Another example from intellectual processes is found in Daniel Kahneman's characterization of decision-making, which differentiates between 'thinking fast' and 'thinking slow.' Quick, intuitive decisions often lack the depth of analysis that slower, more contemplative thinking provides, especially when it comes to making informed choices on complex issues such as voting or policy-making.