Graham Wallas' model of creativity

Graham Wallas was a social psychologist who proposed a four-stage model of the creative process in his book "The Art of Thought" published in 1926. The model consists of the following stages:

1. Preparation: This stage involves gathering information, exploring the problem or topic, and immersing oneself in the subject matter. It also involves defining the problem and setting goals for the creative process.

2. Incubation: In this stage, the individual takes a break from actively thinking about the problem or topic. The subconscious mind continues to work on the problem, making connections and generating ideas without conscious effort.

3. Illumination: This is the "aha" moment when a sudden insight or solution to the problem emerges. It is often described as a moment of clarity or inspiration.

4. Verification: In this final stage, the individual evaluates and refines the idea or solution generated in the illumination stage. This involves testing the idea, gathering feedback, and making any necessary revisions.

Overall, Wallas' model emphasizes the importance of both conscious and unconscious processes in the creative process and highlights the need for a structured approach to creativity.

Graham Wallas' Four-Stage Model of Creativity

Graham Wallas, a British sociologist and political theorist, developed a four-stage model of creativity in the early 20th century. This model proposes that creative thinking follows a distinct and predictable pattern:

1. Preparation:

- Immersion in the problem: Actively gathering information, studying, and exploring the subject matter.
- Incubation: Allowing the subconscious mind to work on the problem, even when consciously not thinking about it.
- Exploration of different perspectives: Considering various viewpoints, ideas, and approaches to the problem.

2. Illumination (or Insight):

- Sudden and intuitive comprehension: An "aha!" moment where the solution or idea emerges unexpectedly.
- Cognitive reconfiguration: Seeing the problem or situation from a new perspective.
- Intense focus and concentration: Fully engaging in the creative process and working towards a solution.

3. Verification:

- Critical evaluation of the idea: Analyzing and assessing its feasibility, practicality, and potential impact.
- Refining and perfecting the idea: Making adjustments, improvements, and testing the idea against different criteria.

4. Implementation:

- Bringing the idea to life: Putting the solution or idea into practice, developing products or services, or creating something tangible.
- Overcoming obstacles and challenges: Addressing any obstacles encountered during the implementation phase.
- Communicating the idea to others: Presenting the creative outcome to the intended audience or stakeholders.

Key Features:

- Linear progression: The model suggests a sequential progression through the four stages.
- Iterative nature: The stages may not always be strictly linear, and there may be instances of cycling back to previous stages for further development or refinement.
- Subconscious involvement: Incubation and illumination emphasize the role of the subconscious mind in creative thinking.
- Importance of preparation: Wallas stresses the significance of thorough research and exploration in the preparation stage.
- Need for verification and implementation: The model highlights that creativity encompasses not only the generation of ideas but also their practical application and evaluation.