The Act of Creation
In 'The Act of Creation,' Arthur Koestler explores the intricate process of creativity and its role in human advancement. He delves into the minds of great thinkers and artists, revealing the fascinating interplay between imagination and intellect. By examining various forms of creativity—from scientific breakthroughs to artistic masterpieces—Koestler uncovers universal principles that govern the creative act. The book challenges readers to rethink the nature of inspiration and the barriers that hinder innovation. Are you ready to unlock the secrets of creativity and discover what makes the human spirit thrive?
By Arthur Koestler
Published: NaN
"Creativity is the ability to see relationships where none exist, to make connections that can lead to new ideas and understandings."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
"First published by Hutchinson & Co. 1964"--Page 6.
The Mike & Casey Show
Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts
Key Points from The Act of Creation
About the Author
Arthur Koestler
Arthur Koestler (1905-1983) was a Hungarian-British author and journalist, renowned for his exploration of political and philosophical themes during the 20th century. He is best known for his influential works such as "Darkness at Noon", a profound examination of totalitarianism and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in oppressive regimes, and "The Sleepwalkers", an acclaimed history of mankind's search for scientific understanding. Koestler's writing style is characterized by its intellectual rigor, engaging narrative, and deep psychological insights, often reflecting his own tumultuous experiences with ideology and conflict. A staunch advocate for human rights, he was also a prominent critic of totalitarianism, which shaped much of his literary output.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Arthur Koestler
- Published
- N/A
- Publisher
- N/A
- ISBN
- 1939438985
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 752
- Genres
- Philosophy of MindPsychologyArts and Culture
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
The Psychology of Money
Morgan Housel
Nudge
Richard H. Thaler, Cass R. Sunstein
The Millionaire Fastlane
MJ DeMarco
The Stand
Stephen King
Wanting
Luke Burgis
Island
Aldous Huxley
The Book of Why
Judea Pearl, Dana Mackenzie
Viral Loop
Adam L. Penenberg
The Wisdom of the Enneagram
Don Richard Riso, Russ Hudson
The Happiness Hypothesis
Jonathan Haidt
Pre-Suasion
Robert Cialdini
Dig Safe
Stuart Dischell
The Social Leap
William von Hippel
Handbook of Social Psychology, Volume 1
Susan T. Fiske, Daniel T. Gilbert, Gardner Lindzey
Gamification by Design
Authentic Happiness
Martin E. P. Seligman
Psychology of the Digital Age
John R. Suler
Clumsy
Jeffrey Brown
Lentil
Robert McCloskey
Jurassic Park
Michael Crichton
Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain
Betty Edwards
Transcend
Scott Barry Kaufman
A Sand County Almanac, and Sketches Here and There
Aldo Leopold
Scale
Geoffrey B. West
The Symbolic Life
Carl Gustav Jung
The Neuropsychology of Anxiety
Jeffrey Alan Gray, Neil McNaughton
The Revolt
Menachem Begin
A Short History of Financial Euphoria
John Kenneth Galbraith
My Life on the Road
Gloria Steinem
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Adam Robinson's Book Recommendations
Adam Robinson is a distinguished author, financial advisor, and co-founder of the Princeton Review, which revolutionized the test preparation industry. He is renowned for his best-selling book "Cracking the SAT," which has guided countless students to achieve higher scores. Robinson's expertise extends beyond education into financial markets, where he is a respected global macro advisor. His contributions to literature and finance have earned him a reputation as a thought leader and innovator. Continually sought after for his insights, Robinson remains a pivotal figure in both the educational and financial sectors.
View Collection
Joe Rogan's Book Recommendations
Joe Rogan is a multifaceted American entertainer known primarily for his work as a comedian, podcast host, and commentator. He gained widespread recognition through his immensely popular podcast, "The Joe Rogan Experience," which has featured in-depth conversations with a diverse array of guests, including scientists, celebrities, and politicians. Though not primarily known for literature, Rogan has contributed to the field with his thought-provoking discussions that often explore philosophical and intellectual ideas. Additionally, he has authored the book "Mastering the Rubber Guard," which delves into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, showcasing his expertise in martial arts. Rogan's influence extends beyond traditional media, impacting contemporary discourse through his unique blend of humor, curiosity, and critical thinking.
View Collection
Anna Kendrick's Book Recommendations
Anna Kendrick is an acclaimed actress and author, best known for her versatile performances in film and theater. She gained widespread recognition for her role in the "Twilight" series and earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in "Up in the Air." In 2016, Kendrick expanded her creative repertoire by publishing her memoir, "Scrappy Little Nobody," which offers a candid, humorous look at her life and career. The book became a New York Times bestseller, showcasing her sharp wit and storytelling talent. Kendrick continues to influence both the entertainment and literary worlds with her engaging presence and authentic voice.
View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Jon Stewart's Book Recommendations
Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.
View Collection
Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations
Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.
View Collection
Nat Eliason's Book Recommendations
Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.
View Collection
Bill Gates's Book Recommendations
Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View Collection
Matt Mullenweg's Book Recommendations
Matt Mullenweg is an influential American entrepreneur and web developer, best known for co-founding WordPress, the open-source software that powers over 40% of the web. Born in 1984 in Houston, Texas, Mullenweg's work has revolutionized digital publishing and democratized web content creation. As the CEO of Automattic, the parent company of WordPress.com, he has expanded the platform's reach and capabilities, fostering a vibrant community of developers and users. Mullenweg is also an advocate for open-source software and has contributed significantly to its proliferation and adoption. His impact on digital literature and publishing is profound, enabling countless individuals and organizations to share their voices online.
View Collection
Brian Cox's Book Recommendations
Brian Cox is a Scottish actor and director, best known for his roles in films like Braveheart and Adaptation, as well as for his portrayal of media mogul Logan Roy in the hit HBO series Succession. Cox is renowned for his commanding screen presence and his ability to convey complex, often morally ambiguous characters. He has had a distinguished career in both film and theater, earning numerous awards, including a Golden Globe for his performance in Succession. In addition to his acting work, Cox is a vocal advocate for arts education and has been involved in various charitable initiatives. His longevity and versatility have made him a respected and influential figure in the entertainment industry.
View Collection
Guillermo del Toro's Book Recommendations
Guillermo del Toro is a Mexican filmmaker, author, and producer known for his dark fantasy and horror films, including Pan’s Labyrinth and The Shape of Water. Del Toro’s films often blend elements of fairy tales with gothic horror, exploring themes of humanity and monstrosity. He won the Academy Award for Best Director for The Shape of Water in 2018. Del Toro is also a passionate advocate for the preservation of film history and a mentor to emerging filmmakers. His unique visual style and storytelling have made him one of the most respected directors in modern cinema.
View Collection
Charles Koch's Book Recommendations
Charles Koch is an American businessman and philanthropist, best known as the Chairman and CEO of Koch Industries, one of the largest privately held companies in the world. Beyond his business acumen, Koch has made significant contributions to literature, particularly in the field of economics and management. His book "The Science of Success" outlines his philosophy of Market-Based Management, a framework for business success that has influenced many entrepreneurs. Additionally, his co-authored work "Good Profit" delves into creating value for society through principled entrepreneurship. Koch's writings emphasize the importance of innovation, free markets, and a principled approach to business.
View Collection
Esther Perel's Book Recommendations
Esther Perel is a renowned Belgian psychotherapist and author, celebrated for her groundbreaking work in the field of relationships and sexuality. She is best known for her best-selling books "Mating in Captivity: Unlocking Erotic Intelligence" and "The State of Affairs: Rethinking Infidelity," which explore the complexities of modern love and desire. Perel's insightful TED Talks have garnered millions of views, further establishing her as a leading voice on intimacy and human connection. She also hosts the popular podcast "Where Should We Begin?" where she provides a candid look into the intricacies of couples therapy. Perel's innovative perspectives have significantly influenced contemporary discussions on relationships, making her a pivotal figure in both psychology and literature.
View Collection
Brendon Burchard's Book Recommendations
Brendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, best known for his books High Performance Habits and The Motivation Manifesto. He helps individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through strategies focused on clarity, energy, and productivity. Brendon’s work emphasizes the importance of personal growth and developing habits that lead to sustained success. He has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, Olympians, and other high-achieving individuals. Brendon is also the founder of the High Performance Academy, where he trains people to lead more impactful and successful lives.
View Collection
Ali Abdaal's Book Recommendations
Ali Abdaal is a renowned productivity expert, author, and YouTuber known for his engaging content on personal development and effective study techniques. A former doctor, Abdaal transitioned from his medical career to focus on sharing insights through his popular YouTube channel, which has amassed millions of subscribers. He is the author of "YouTube for Doctors," where he explores the intersection of medicine and digital content creation. Abdaal's work is celebrated for its practical advice, blending scientific research with personal anecdotes to help individuals optimize their lives. His contributions have significantly influenced the productivity and self-improvement community, making him a respected voice in the field.
View Collection
Stewart Brand's Book Recommendations
Stewart Brand is an influential American writer, best known for founding the Whole Earth Catalog, a publication that became a cornerstone of the counter-culture movement in the late 1960s and early 1970s. His pioneering work in promoting environmental sustainability and self-sufficiency has had a lasting impact on both literature and society. Brand is also a co-founder of The WELL, an early online community that predated the widespread use of the internet and helped shape the development of digital culture. He has authored several significant books, including "The Media Lab" and "Whole Earth Discipline," which explore technology's role in environmental and societal issues. Brand's contributions continue to influence contemporary discussions on ecology, technology, and community building.
View Collection
Evan Spiegel's Book Recommendations
Evan Spiegel is an American entrepreneur best known as the co-founder and CEO of Snap Inc., the company behind the popular multimedia messaging app Snapchat. Born on June 4, 1990, Spiegel revolutionized social media with the introduction of ephemeral messaging and augmented reality features. Though not a traditional figure in literature, his contributions to tech culture and digital storytelling have been influential in shaping modern communication. Spiegel's work has garnered him a spot on Forbes' list of youngest billionaires and has made Snapchat a cultural phenomenon among younger generations. His innovative approach continues to impact the evolving landscape of digital media and communication.
View Collection
Arianna Huffington's Book Recommendations
Arianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.
View Collection
Frank Chimero's Book Recommendations
Frank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.
View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
View Collection“Creativity is the ability to see relationships where none exist, to make connections that can lead to new ideas and understandings.”
The Act of Creation
By Arthur Koestler
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.