Synonyms
Introduction
Most theories of creativity focus on the distinctive functional/computational mechanism that accounts for what makes creative mental processes creative. They disagree about what this functional/computational mechanism is supposed to be (whether it is the recombination of old ideas or the transformation of one’s conceptual space, etc.) but they are in agreement about the kind of explanation to be offered – a functional/computational one. Experiential theories of creativity question this assumption that what makes creative mental processes creative is a distinctive functional/computational mechanism. According to these theories, creativity of creative mental processes is to be explained with reference to the way in which this mental process is experienced.
Creativity Versus Originality
Creativity and originality are often used as synonyms. Arguably, this is a mistake. Being original is usually contrasted with being derivative: An idea, for example, is...
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Nanay, B. (2013). Creativity, Experiential Theories. In: Carayannis, E.G. (eds) Encyclopedia of Creativity, Invention, Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-3858-8_469
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