Through randomness we create structure, and through structure we accommodate randomness. The structures we create have basic premises shared by all life forms and forces. These patterns are repeated and shared. Creative thinking has similar characteristics. (MSE)

In reviewing the Lumsden and Findlay model of creative ontogeny and its potential influences on geneculture coevolution, the authors found it consistent with certain aspects of the creative process and suggestive of promising new research avenues. They also concluded that biologically based models, especially concerning cultural innovation, must…

Compares behaviorist interpretations of creativity, which present it as a product of causal factors, with existentialist interpretations, which concern themselves with inner processes. Offers an alternative explanation which combines both views. Discusses implications for education. (DMM)

The author shares insights distilled from years of working with people who must be creative for a living. Includes a list of distinctive traits of creative people, blocks to creativity, and advice for rekindling the fires of creativity. Points out that creativity cannot be taught, but can be rediscovered. (JOW)

A 33 percent random sample drawn from 640 colleges (92.5 percent return) ascertained factors associated with creativity in collegiate summer session programs. Examination of 36 programs did not support the hypothesis that "creative" summer programs were more a consequence of external than internal factors. (JOW)

Forty-seven preschoolers were assigned to one of four conditions: structured instructions with structured or unstructured materials or unstructured instruction with structured or unstructured materials. Flexibility scores were significantly lower with structured materials than with unstructured materials, especially given structured instructions.…

In aspiring to professionalism, adult educators currently view their role as facilitation. Instead, there should be substantive emphasis on practical knowledge or know-how, which regards educators' activities as shaped by creativity, reflection, and rationality. (SK)

Serendipity and pseudoserendipity in scientific discovery are distinguished with examples. True serendipity is seen to involve purely accidental discovery of things not sought, whereas pseudoserendipity involves accidental discoveries of ways to achieve an end that was sought. (DB)

This bibliography lists, in alphabetical order by author, over 100 English-language books on creativity and problem solving, published in 1990 and 1991. In addition to the bibliographic information provided, one or two subject descriptor terms are included to note the content area of each book. (JDD)

Provides a perspective on the integrative healing aspects of poetry. Suggests that poetry calls things together, contains things, brings things to light, and shows how things are already whole, healed, one. (RS)

The role of serendipity or "chance in all its forms" in scientific discovery is considered. The need to differentiate between purely accidental events and Rothenberg's "articulations of error" when discussing scientific discoveries is stressed. Examples of articulations of errors are noted, including Fleming (penicillin),…

Outlines concept of aging of Leos Janacek, a composer remembered primarily for works that he composed in the last decade of his life. Describes Janacek's subjects of his late operas; composer's comments during this period; and shape of his musical structures. Questions concept of "late style" and notes problems of applying models to…

Thomas Young was a renowned genius in his time who did important work in many scientific disciplines. In today's specialized environment, scientists in each discipline do not appreciate his work. Despite his current obscurity, Young exemplifies traits found in a first-order genius (analogical thinking, high intelligence, hard work, wide interests,…

Explores the use of conceptual combination in Stephen Donaldson's development of ideas for his fantasy books. Uses Donaldson's own account to illustrate the general principles of a creative cognition approach to understanding creativity and the role of the process of conceptual combination. Assesses links between Donaldson's and others' anecdotal…

Ways that trainers use humor to diffuse stress and stimulate creativity are described. Discuses how humor engages people, allows failure, and overcomes defenses and resistance. (SK)