Possible, yes, but useful? Why the search for possibilities is limited but can be enhanced by expertise

Abstract

In creative domains such as art, design and science, the generation of novel possibilities is highly desirable. However, most human activity takes place outside of domains where the generation of novel possibilities is prescriptively optimal, and indeed to do so may be undesirable. In this paper, evidence for the paucity of possibility generation will be described, even in instances where generation of multiple possibilities might be desirable. Conversely, the value of focussing on currently explored rather than novel possibilities is demonstrated with reference to a computational model of insight problem-solving. It is suggested that, in domains where generation of creative possibilities is a task requirement, strategies acquired though domain expertise are needed to push thinking into new possibility spaces. These strategies are illustrated by case studies and data from domains of insurance fraud and police investigations, educational task design and puzzle solving.