ERIC Number: EJ1088986
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2015
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1040-0419
EISSN: N/A
On the Usefulness of "Value" in the Definition of Creativity
Weisberg, Robert W.
Creativity Research Journal, v27 n2 p111-124 2015
Current definitions of creativity almost universally include "value" or a close cognate as one of the criteria. This article discusses two problems that arise as the result of the inclusion of value in those definitions. First, there is a conflict between the researchers' definition of the relevant phenomena and that used in the ordinary language, as well as a conflict between the ordinary understanding of the relevant concepts and the way they are used by researchers. Such conflicts may result in research being ignored or rejected by other researchers and policy makers. Second, the value attributed to some product is the result of a subjective judgment, which is subject to change over generations. Such changes have the consequence of making it impossible to develop a cumulative knowledge base in the study of creativity. In response to those problems, an alternative definition of creative, based on the criteria of intentional novelty, and not including value in any form, is discussed. In addition, positive reasons for adopting that definition are presented.
Descriptors: Creativity, Values, Creative Development, Creativity Tests, Creative Activities, Cognitive Science, Value Judgment, Criticism, Novelty (Stimulus Dimension), Criteria, Science Process Skills
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A