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The Utility of Deep Divergence in Applied Creativity
ABSTRACT OF PROJECT
The Utility of Deep Divergence in Applied Creativity
If applied creativity seeks the generation of novel and useful ideas for a real-world goal, wish, or challenge, then my concept of theoretical creativity can best be described as the generation of ideas that are novel and not yet useful. I assert that the employment of deep divergence is the best tool for producing ideas within a theoretical creativity framework. Deep divergence is defined as divergent thinking to its most extreme levels, far beyond what is probable, beyond what is possible, and into an unplumbed realm of what is currently impossible and unknowable. However, for this project, my aim was to determine if there is utility in exploring deep divergence in matters of applied creativity and, in particular, within the construct of a creative problem-solving ideation session. What follows is 1) a foundation of the considerations and precautions one must address prior to the implementation of deep divergence in an ideation session, and 2) a proposed methodology for exploring deep divergence, including tools, facilitation prompts, and suggestions for establishing a productive creative climate.
In early 2021 I formulated a concept that I dubbed "theoretical creativity." If "applied creativity" is the coin's obverse, then "theoretical creativity" is the reverse side of that same coin. Similar to the oppositional relationship between applied physics and theoretical physics, where the former is rooted in the basic concepts of physical sciences and the intersection of known principles of practical devices and systems (e.g., engineering, technology, etc.) and the latter, in stark contrast, employs hypothetical models and abstractions to predict natural phenomena and behavior rather than the study of extant knowledge and its application, applied creativity and theoretical creativity are diametric. Borrowing from the definition of theoretical physics, theoretical creativity must also employ hypothetical concepts and abstractions rather than any existing knowledge, understanding, or experience. It is my position that this can be achieved by exploring the deepest depths of divergent thinking. So, the question is, just how far can the human brain go in its divergence?
The Utility of Deep Divergence in Applied Creativity
If applied creativity seeks the generation of novel and useful ideas for a real-world goal, wish, or challenge, then my concept of theoretical creativity can best be described as the generation of ideas that are novel and not yet useful. I assert that the employment of deep divergence is the best tool for producing ideas within a theoretical creativity framework. Deep divergence is defined as divergent thinking to its most extreme levels, far beyond what is probable, beyond what is possible, and into an unplumbed realm of what is currently impossible and unknowable. However, for this project, my aim was to determine if there is utility in exploring deep divergence in matters of applied creativity and, in particular, within the construct of a creative problem-solving ideation session. What follows is 1) a foundation of the considerations and precautions one must address prior to the implementation of deep divergence in an ideation session, and 2) a proposed methodology for exploring deep divergence, including tools, facilitation prompts, and suggestions for establishing a productive creative climate.
In early 2021 I formulated a concept that I dubbed "theoretical creativity." If "applied creativity" is the coin's obverse, then "theoretical creativity" is the reverse side of that same coin. Similar to the oppositional relationship between applied physics and theoretical physics, where the former is rooted in the basic concepts of physical sciences and the intersection of known principles of practical devices and systems (e.g., engineering, technology, etc.) and the latter, in stark contrast, employs hypothetical models and abstractions to predict natural phenomena and behavior rather than the study of extant knowledge and its application, applied creativity and theoretical creativity are diametric. Borrowing from the definition of theoretical physics, theoretical creativity must also employ hypothetical concepts and abstractions rather than any existing knowledge, understanding, or experience. It is my position that this can be achieved by exploring the deepest depths of divergent thinking. So, the question is, just how far can the human brain go in its divergence?
75 pages, Paperback
Published May 18, 2023
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