Scientific Genius: A Psychology of Science

by Dean Keith Simonton

Overview

Dean Keith Simonton developed a theory of scientific genius called chance-configuration theory that accounts for mental processes and behaviors behind the creative act, including intuition, incubation, and serendipity as well as the cognitive and motivational styles of great scientists in terms of a personality typology. Simonton examines the causes and consequences of exceptional productivity: individual differences in lifetime output, the functional relation between age and achievement, the probabilistic connection between quantity and quality, and such issues as the Ortega hypothesis, the Yuasa phenomenon, and Planck's principle. Other factors that he examines are family background, education, role models, marginality, and the zeitgeist. A concluding chapter outlines the broader implications of the theory for the measurement and encouragement of genius in science, and places it in the context of the alternative metasciences – the philosophy, sociology, and psychology of science. Simonton's provocative ideas are a major impetus to true psychology of science and will interest a broad audience.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521117135
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	07/30/2009
Pages:	240
Product dimensions:	6.20(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.70(d)

Table of Contents

List of tables and figures; Acknowledgements; 1. The chance-configuration theory; 2. Impressionistic evidence; 3. Personality and individual differences; 4. Productivity; 5. Development antecedents; 6. Multiple discovery and invention; 7. Creative genius in science; References; Name index; Subject Index.