CM 274: Keith Sawyer on Group Genius

Curious Minds at Work

We like the idea of the lone genius, that one person who developed a game-changing innovation. But whether or not we realize it, research shows that creativity is collaborative. Yep. You heard that right. And we have lots of examples: the development of the airplane, the Internet, the mountain bike, and so many more. We’re schooled in the notion that creativity is an individual thing, yet research shows, again and again, that it’s not. Instead, it’s through connecting with others, then working alone, and then connecting again, that we innovate. Keith Sawyer has studied groups and creativity for decades. His book, Group Genius: The Creative Power of Collaboration, elucidates what group genius looks like, why it works, and what it takes to cultivate it, so we can develop game-changing innovations. This book changed how I see groups, creativity, and the connection between the two, and the research findings are fascinating. Episode Links Group Creativity and Collaboration Everyone Can Be More Creative – But Not Alone Being More Creative in Everyday Life is Simple Interview with Moshe Bar The Team Learn more about host, Gayle Allen, and producer, Rob Mancabelli, here. Support the Podcast If you like the show, please rate and review it on iTunes or wherever you subscribe, and tell a friend or family member about the show. Subscribe Click here and then scroll down to see a sample of sites where you can subscribe.