The Creative Brain: The Science of Genius

Shakespeare’s tragic plays, Mozart’s sublime symphonies, Einstein’s revolutionary theories—how did these geniuses create such magnificent and highly original works? Were their brains different from those of ordinary people? Using modern neuroscience together with first-person accounts of creative breakthroughs from artists and scientists such as Mozart, Henri Poincaré, and Neil Simon, The Creative Brain illuminates where extraordinary creativity comes from.

Acclaimed brain scientist Nancy Andreasen proposes that, due to enriched connections between certain areas of the brain, geniuses are able to tap into the unconscious mind in ways that most of us can’t. She also explores the link between creativity and mental illness, and she shows how all of us can enhance our creative potential through mental exercises. Clearly and accessibly written, The Creative Brain is a fascinating investigation into the mystery of human genius.

Nancy Andreasen is the Andrew H. Woods Chair of Psychiatry and director of the Mental Health Clinical Research Center at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine. She served for twelve years as the editor in chief of the American Journal of Psychiatry and has authored or edited fifteen books, including The Broken Brain and Brave New Brain. She was awarded the National Medal of Science by President Clinton.