Reflection 1: 8/29/11

Creativity and Emotions


What is the relationship of creativity to the emotions? Which emotions help creativity? Which ones hinder?


     In Creativity is Forever, Davis states that self-actualization is using all of one's talents to realize your full potential and become what you are capable of becoming. An individual who is self-actualized has satisfied the other needs in Maslow's motivational or "need hierarchy".  It also stands to reason that if you have your needs met and you are then fulfilling your goals and potential, then you should be a reasonably happy individual.  Self-actualized creativity then should mean that one is content or happy, directly affecting emotions of the individual.  
     However, it is also stated that certain individuals with special talent creativity can be neurotic and not self-actualized at all.  Some examples given were Beethoven, Mozart, and Vincent van Gogh.  These three individuals are noted as being highly creative in their own respects with their talents, but all three were angry, torn, and emotionally unhealthy people.  
     Both examples here demonstrate types creative individuals, but emotionally these are worlds apart.  I honestly believe that it depends on every individual as to what emotions help to develop creativity.  While Cloninger and Mengert state that "it seems clear that the activities that bring us joy are essentially creative",  the individuals mentioned above were not necessarily happy or joyful people.  Also, I do realize that for many people, frustration, anger and sadness can hinder creativity because their individual needs may not be met, disallowing their mind to reach to a creative stance.  But overall, I think there are individuals tho are able to be creative even when they are not happy or content .  


Humor in Creativity


Does a sense of humor help or hinder creativity?


     I look at this question in two different ways- the creative individual and his or her sense of humor, and the audience of a creator and their sense of humor.  In the documentary "Why Man Creates", a man created something and then was laughed at because of it.  The audience in this situation had a sense of humor that was perhaps different from the creator's and it seemed to be hurtful.  When someone is creative and is mocked or laughed at because of their unique idea, this could definitely hinder creativity.  
     From the other perspective however, if someone who being creative or using creativity has humor, this could help the process.  I am sure that in laboratories where scientists have manipulated plants to create more resilient trees or larger fruits, at some point they developed something so unusual they had to just laugh at it.  And most likely in kitchens where chefs create culinary  masterpieces, at some point they created something that they tasted and laughed because the flavors or textures were so ridiculous together.  (I know I have done this with my own cooking before)  So, in regards to humor and creativity, it is in the context in which it is taken as to whether it is a help or hindrance.