Unifying theories of creativity: Metaphorical thought and the unification process

Journal/Book: New Idea Psychol. 1996; 14: The Boulevard, Langford Lane, Kidlington, Oxford, England OX5 1GB. Pergamon-Elsevier Science Ltd. 257-267.

Abstract: Theories of creativity collectively provide a rich but fragmented knowledge base for research. In order to better understand the nature of creativity, investigators must Provide a more coherent theoretical foundation by integrating many theories from different disciplines. Unfortunately, interdisciplinary groups of theorists who attempt collaborative theoretic integration have trouble finding common conceptual ground for their unification efforts. The implicit influence of metaphor on thought causes some of these difficulties, but metaphor also holds potential for bridging the conceptual gaps between differing theoretical and philosophical positions. Interdisciplinary teams of theorists can engage in parallel processes of metaphorical exploration and nonmetaphorical verification to illuminate the barriers to integration, and to capitalize on the integrative potential of metaphoric thought.

Note: Article Ambrose D, Rider Univ, Coll Educ & Human Serv, 2083 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville,NJ 08648 USA

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