Can we Really Have an Integrative Theory of Creativity? The Case of Creative Cognition

Abstract

In this commentary to Glăveanu (2014), I address one specific issue raised – that of the need for a grand or unifying theory of creativity. I discuss whether our understanding of creative cognition has progressed sufficiently to allow for the development of, or inclusion in, a grand theory of creativity. Specifically, I argue that there are many gaps in our understanding of two major processes, problem identification and construction and idea evaluation and choice. I further provide some suggestions for how we can move the field forward on these individual aspects, and still strive for integration.