Imagine

Jonah Lehrer asks what is the science behind artistic creativity? This question, happily, means that the 'science bit' is best answered by fascinating explorations of every type of creativity. From Bob Dylan's blending of the music he had grown up with to create something entirely new in 'Like A Rolling Stone', the invention of a new type of mop to the common foundations of the differing genius of Steve Jobs and Shakespeare Lehrer maps out how the neuroscience behind an impulse in an individual's brain can move culture in a new direction.

Imagine could be read as a personal plan for anyone who wants to enhance their own creativity, whether in coming up with a business idea or a novel. Jonah Lehrer draws out the practicalities of improving your creativity, painting walls blue helps, as does Benzedrine (and having ADHD). Creativity is uniquely human, the creative impulse is built into every human brain but it can be fostered by social and political changes (especially immigration and widening access to education). This is a book that will say as much to a politician as to someone struggling with a half-written novel.   

Imagine is as inspiring as it is revealing, saying as much about building a better society as art, it explains and entertains while widening the potential of every human brain.