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The structure of creative cognition in the human brain
Rex E Jung1, Brittany S Mead, Jessica Carrasco
1Department of Neurosurgery, University of New Mexico Albuquerque, NM, USA.
Frontiers in Human Neuroscience
|July 13, 2013
Summary
This study explores creative cognition by linking idea generation and remote associate tests to brain imaging. Findings suggest disinhibitory brain features and the default mode network are key to creativity.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Neuroimaging
- Psychology
Background:
- Creativity is a complex construct, often difficult to study scientifically due to vague definitions.
- The evolutionary framework of blind variation and selective retention (BVSR) offers a model for understanding creative cognition.
- BVSR can be operationalized through divergent thinking (idea generation) and convergent thinking (remote associates).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neural underpinnings of creative cognition.
- To correlate behavioral measures of creativity with structural neuroimaging data.
- To explore the role of brain networks, such as the default mode network (DMN), in creativity.
Main Methods:
- Correlational analysis of creative cognition measures (divergent and convergent thinking) with neuroimaging data.
- Inclusion of structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS).
- Review of lesion studies as critical brain-behavioral evidence.
Main Results:
- A pattern of results consistent with theories of disinhibitory brain functions supporting creative cognition.
- Evidence linking specific neuroimaging findings to measures of divergent and convergent thinking.
- Identification of potential involvement of the default mode network (DMN) in creative processes.
Conclusions:
- Creative cognition appears to involve disinhibitory brain mechanisms.
- Neuroimaging and lesion studies provide converging evidence for the neural basis of creativity.
- The default mode network (DMN) offers a promising framework for understanding the brain's creative architecture.
Keywords:
blind variationcreativitydefault mode networkdiffusion tensor imagingdivergent thinkingmagnetic resonance spectroscopystructural neuroimagingMore Related Videos
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