The Eminent Genius in History: the Critical Role of Creative Development

Why do creative geniuses appear in some periods of history but not in others? A review of recent research suggests that various external events--including formal education, role-model availability, zeitgeist, political fragmentation, war, civil disturbances, and political instability-- tend to have a critical impact on the development of creative potential in the young genius. Once that potential is established, however, and the genius enters adulthood, creative productivity tends to proceed with little interference from outside events.

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