Creativity and 'eureka' in science and engineering

Abstract

Creativity theory started out on a scientific basis at the beginning of the 20th century; but then the scope broadened and inquiry became more multidisciplinary. In this article it is shown how the current demand for creativity in science and engineering grows faster than the understanding of it. As a result, the broad definition of 'creativity' is refocused on science and engineering by considering its evolutionary roots. Based on an overview of the work of scientists and engineers, a unified theoretical framework for creativity is proposed, and the systemic approach to awareness and creativity is affirmed. This approach - the theoretical framework and the core of current creativity knowledge - is then used to derive a fresh layer of theory that is anchored in the literature and industrial experience.