Work

Eureka Moments Shared by Chemists. Hints at Enhancing One’s Own Creativity (and Even One’s Joy)

Year: 2024

Type: other

Abstract: Interviews were conducted with 18 chemists from several subdisciplines of chemistry and include a diversity of demographics on the topic of creativity as seen through the eyes of Eureka moments. The experiences fell within three categories, i.e., (1) analytical problem-solving which can be reconstructed into a series of logical steps that can be identified; (2) memory retrieval processes of previously acquired knowledge; and (3) insights characterized by a sudden and unexpected understanding. There were variations of detail within each category. Suggestions for enhancing the probability of experiencing Eureka moments are provided.

Source: ACS Central Science

DOI: 10.1021/acscentsci.4c00802

Authors: Jeffrey I. Seeman, Judy I. Wu

Institutions: University of Richmond, University of Houston

Language: English

Topic: Creativity in Education and Neuroscience

Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: diamond

Funders: Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, National Institute of General Medical Sciences, Division of Chemistry

Awards: G1326577516, G7451752241, Unlocking Biologically-Relevant Opportunities Through Applications of Excited-State Aromaticity and Antiaromaticity

OpenAlex ID: W4403940802

Cites: 94

Cited by: 3

Related to: 10