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Creativity in the Ancient Greek Philosophy: The Politics of Demiourgein.
- Source :
- Journal of Creative Behavior; Jun2024, Vol. 58 Issue 2, p227-244, 18p
- Publication Year :
- 2024
-
Abstract
- Where does creativity come from and what is its purpose? The paper revisits these ever‐turning questions to correct the prevalent but, arguably, inaccurate historical interpretation of creativity as a concept that emerged in modernity. First, I substantiate that a close study of the ancient Greek texts suggests that although creativity seems to occupy a peripheral position in the ancient philosophical thinking, it is a central, yet, hidden, subject of speculation. Second, I overturn the worn‐out view that the ancient Greek philosophy conceives creativity as a God‐given talent breathed into a fortunate few. Last, I demonstrate that a more encompassing understanding of creativity is implied by several Greek philosophers. To achieve this, (a) I discuss the contemporary interpretations of the ancient notion; (b) I examine the historical origin and etymology of the Greek term demiourgein ("to create") to discuss its relevant uses; and (c) I develop a nuanced framework for conceptualizing ancient creativity and its interrelation to human agency, politics, and social life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 00220175
- Volume :
- 58
- Issue :
- 2
- Database :
- Supplemental Index
- Journal :
- Journal of Creative Behavior
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 177962077
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1002/jocb.644