Brain networks of creative cognition

In recent years there has been an increasing interest in the role of brain networks supporting creative thinking. This chapter provides a summary of the literature on the network neuroscience of creativity, providing a twofold argument by separately detailing research in domain-general and domain-specific creativity. The first section will concern two main lines of research on domain-general creativity: (1) the neurocognitive mechanisms of creative cognition (how brain networks map onto specific cognitive processes involved in creative thinking), and (2) the individual differences in brain network connectivity and creative ability (how brain networks relate to differences in creative abilities). The second section, on domain-specific creativity, will then consider three domains of artistic creativity: (1) music improvisation, (2) figural creativity, and (3) literary creativity. Throughout this chapter we discuss common themes and shared findings between domain-general and domain-specific creativity. We will then conclude by outlining some of the limitations in the literature and by providing some directions for future research.