Definition
Throughout time, experiences of adversity and suffering have been associated with creativity, particularly that of an artistic nature. This dynamic has also been the subject of considerable scientific inquiry. The archetype of the “tortured artist” is ubiquitous as is the notion that great art is born out of adversity. There is evidence to suggest that creativity can arise following traumatic events and that experiences of adversity can inspire and provide source material for the creation of art. Additionally, experiences which challenge preconceptions can engender alterations at a neural level and bring new creative possibilities to fruition. The romanticization of suffering is however problematic, and it should not be suggested that physical and psychological distress are desirable prerequisites for creativity. Indeed, positive experiences can also be creatively transformative. Nevertheless, as suffering is a universal experience, it is important to better understand the...
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Ginis, K., Stewart, S., Kronborg, L. (2022). Adversity. In: Glăveanu, V.P. (eds) The Palgrave Encyclopedia of the Possible. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-90913-0_240
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