On creativity

In an experiment conducted on chimpanzees,

where chimpanzees were given the tools to paint, it was observed that they began to apply themselves to make balanced pattern of colour, somewhat reminiscent of certain forms of modern art, such as abstract expressionism.

An extension of this experiment carried out by Desomond Morris involved rewarding chimpanzees for producing their paintings. Very soon their work began to degenerate until they produced the bare minimum that would satisfy the experimenter." ~ From the book 'Science, Order and Creativity.'

The pattern of reward and punishment brings in a factor of "supposed to do" which conflicts with inherent expression saying "do as you 'feel.'"&

This battle between "what is" and "what is supposed to be" is often detrimental to creativity as the entire mechanism, the ability and the energy to create something gets attached to something which is not part of the creative process.

This applies to our daily living as well. We are attached to the rewards in a very dangerous fashion.