| Titel: | An Introduction to Maharishi's Theory of Creativity: Its Empirical Base and Description of the Creative Process |
|---|---|
| Autor: | Aron, Elaine N. Aron, Arthu |
| Mediengruppe: | journal article |
| Herausgeber: | --- |
| Zeitschrift: | The Journal of Creative Behavior |
| Jahr: | 1982 |
| Band: | 16 |
| Heft: | 1 |
| Seiten: | 29-49 |
| Sprache: | English |
| Abstract: | According to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the techniques taught in Transcendental Meditation (TM) and TM-Sidhi courses are able to develop the full potential of individuals, including "mastery" of the creative process. The present paper discusses the theory from which this hypothesis is derived, the Science of Creative Intelligence (SCI); examines one aspect of the theory (i.e., its model of the human creative process); and considers implications of this model for other current theories of creativity. The deepest phase of the practice of the TM program, the experience of pure awareness or "transcendental consciousness" (TC), and the strong association found between this experience and performance on the Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking are discussed. Maharishi's description of thought processes is not initially different from most cognitive models. His central theoretical contribution is his emphasis on the condition and overall style of functioning of the thinker's nervous system—his/her state of consciousness. Current theories of creativity say little about the possibility or implications of the conditions the SCI considers ideal—control over the process in the sense of initiating it and awareness of the process, without active attention or effort. Therefore, SCI does not appear to contradict current theory. However, Maharishi's theory seems to imply that consciousness rather than unconsciousness, may be the most important concept for future theories of creativity. (56 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved) |