The Connection Between Postformal Thought and Major Scientific Innovations

Abstract

We distinguish normal human creativity from originality and innovation, using the orders of hierarchical complexity. These account for why major scientific innovators are rare. The four postformal orders of hierarchical complexity are presented in terms of scientific tasks performed at each stage. Historical scientific innovations at the highest orders are empirically scored. Einstein's general theory of relativity and Darwin's evolution scores at the Cross-paradigmatic stage. Scoring of innovators' personality traits indicate that Metasystematic stage 12 is a minimum requirement. Global needs to produce more scientific innovators require institutional changes of the Metasystematic order of hierarchical complexity.

KEYWORDS:

• Creativity
• Cross-paradigmatic
• innovation
• Metasystematic
• Paradigmatic
• personality traits
• postformal
• scientific