2011/04/01 by Keith Sawyer, R. Keith Sawyer
Neuroscience · Psychology · #Creativity in Education and Neuroscience #Mind wandering and attention #Neural and Behavioral Psychology Studies
paper · doi:10.1080/10400419.2011.571191
openalex publication_date 2011/04/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/29
Cognitive neuroscience studies of creativity have appeared with increasing frequently in recent years. Yet to date, no comprehensive and critical review of these studies has yet been published. The first part of this article presents a quick overview of the 3 primary methodologies used by cognitive neuroscientists: electroencephalography (EEG), positron emission tomography (PET), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The second part provides a comprehensive review of cognitive neuroscience studies of creativity-related cognitive processes. The third part critically examines these studies; the goal is to be extremely clear about exactly what interpretations can appropriately be made of these studies. The conclusion provides recommendations for future research collaborations between creativity researchers and cognitive neuroscientists.