title: Simplifying Theories of Creativity and Revisiting the Criterion Problem: A Comment on Simonton's (2009) Hierarchical Model of Domain-Specific Disposition, Development, and Achievement.
abstract: Simonton's (2009, this issue) hierarchical model represents a useful contribution to studies of creativity and eminence. Simonton breaks all kinds of new ground by extrapolating the hierarchy to the arts and humanities, interpolating it within disciplines, and relating it to family background and disposition. This commentary poses a few questions about the hierarchical model and proposes an alternative. I also introduce a candidate for a simple theory of creativity that focuses on a universally shared capacity. This simple theory complements Simonton's hierarchical view, though his applies best to actual performance and the simple theory of creativity applies to creative potential.
authors.affiliation: Torrance Center for Creativity and Talent Development, University of Georgia, Athens, and The Norwegian School of Economics and Business Administration Runco@uga.edu.
authors.forename: Mark A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Runco