The Science of Creativity Mark Runco: The Psychology of Creativity, Assessment, and Creative Potential
May 27, 2025
Mark Runco, a leading expert in creativity and Professor at Southern Oregon University, dives into the unique nature of human creativity versus generative AI. He critiques the notion that AI can truly replicate creativity, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and intrinsic motivation in creative processes. Runco advocates for educational practices that nurture these qualities, offering actionable strategies to enhance creativity in everyday life. He discusses the complexities of creativity's definition in the AI era, highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding.
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Standard Creativity Definition Evolution
- Creativity traditionally requires both originality and effectiveness in the product.
- This bipartite definition has guided research but is now considered insufficient, especially with AI's role.
AI Lacks Human Creative Process
- Current AI systems produce original and effective outputs but lack human creative processes.
- Creativity entails more than product; it involves intent, authenticity, and unique human cognition.
Intrinsic Motivation Fuels Creativity
- Intrinsic motivation ties creativity to the self and deep personal investment in the process.
- It fosters a state like flow, promoting authentic, innovative work without external rewards as drivers.
