Da Vinci East: creativity insights from China's 11th century Song Dynasty renaissance man Shen Kuo (1031-1095)

Abstract

This study examines the life and career of Shen Kuo, one of the most celebrated figures in the history of Chinese science, drawing insights that inform both research and practice issues in the creativity and management domains. While there are no comparisons made between Leonardo Da Vinci and Shen Kuo, the reference to the original Renaissance man is made to introduce a similar concept for a lesser known eleventh century Eastern equivalent. Following the introduction to the thesis, Chapter One presents a review of creativity while Chapter Two positions this particular study within the vast literature of creativity, espousing the research design, methodology and dimensions. Chapter Three presents a brief study of Shen Kuo's historical context, life and career while Chapter Four illustrates various insights into creativity obtained from studying him. In particular, eight specific cognitive 'creative insights' or mental habits are identified as common themes. Chapter Five posits some method-specific implications, field-level implications and practice implications. Chapter Six features future research recommendations.