Take a look at any discovery, invention, paradigm, or even work of art that has fundamentally changed the world. For example, Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, Newton’s Laws of Motion, the Wright Brothers’ invention of the aeroplane, Aryabhatta’s zero or even Lev Vygotsky’s language acquisition theory. Now, ponder whether it is a feat of intelligence or creativity, stretching our understanding of reality? There is no one clear answer.
Intelligence and creativity are inherently distinct cognitive functions and capacities of the brain. Insurmountable effort has been taken not only to understand, quantify, and develop theories regarding these constructs, but also to differentiate them. Despite a plethora of literature, it becomes difficult to ignore the fact that intelligence and creativity, while different, are opposite sides of the same coin.
What is Intelligence?
Intelligence is often regarded as the ‘gold standard’ of cognitive ability, suggesting that it is the ultimate expression of one’s capacities. While the aforementioned remains debated, psychologists have agreed on what ‘Intelligence’ as a capacity refers to. David Wechsler defined ‘Intelligence’ as “the global capacity of a person to act purposefully, to think rationally, and to deal effectively with his environment” (David Wechsler, PhD | Pearson Assessments US, n.d.). Essentially, it remains a measure of an individual’s ability to learn, reason, problem-solve and adapt to novel experiences in the most efficient way possible.
Psychologists have long used psychometric approaches to measure intelligence, leading to the development of the Intelligence Quotient (IQ). Introduced by Alfred Binet along with the first IQ test (MSEd, 2025), the study of intelligence has evolved greatly since then, leading to the development of modern tests such as the WAIS, SBIS and more (MSEd, 2024). Yet, intelligence is more nuanced than a number obtained on a scale. Psychologists today also subscribe to the idea that intelligence spans various domains such as linguistic, mathematical, spatial, musical and more (Ruhl, 2024).
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What is Creativity?
Traditionally, ‘Creativity’ has been linked to artistic endeavours, but literature suggests that it encompasses the ability to generate novelty (Creativity (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy), 2023). Simultaneously, in today’s academic spaces, ‘creativity’ is considered to be a paradox, which involves multiple aspects of thinking, personality, interaction with the environment, motivation, emotions and more (Cropley, 2019). Despite witnessing multiple feats of creativity across human civilisation, it remains imperceptible as a construct, yet extremely sought after.
J.P. Guilford’s ‘Divergent Production’ and related tests remain the first efforts to treat creativity as a measurable construct (Guilford, 1984). Following that, multiple efforts to measure creativity have led to the development of standardised tools such as the Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking, Consensual Assessment Test and more (Bareš, n.d.). Yet, many argue that such tests fail to encapsulate the true nature of creativity, which encompasses originality, purposefulness, and a deep sense of knowledge.
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The Threshold Theory
Having understood the basic concepts of intelligence and creativity, the questions that arise ponder over the relationship between these two constructs. One of the most compelling theoretical frameworks proposed in the discussion of the relationship between intelligence and creativity is J.P. Guilford’s Threshold Hypothesis of Creativity (Jauk et al., 2013).
What Does the Threshold Hypothesis Propose?
This theory assumes the existence of complex relations between creative abilities and intelligence (Karwowski & Gralewski, 2012).
The core foundation of the threshold hypothesis posits that creativity can only exist when a degree of intelligence is achieved. Focusing on the relationship between creativity and intelligence rather than creative intelligence, the theory states that high creativity requires high or at least above-average intelligence (Jauk et al., 2013).
The IQ Threshold: Why 120?
Literature suggests that there exists a threshold of Intelligence Quotient at 120 below which creativity is hindered. This suggests a predictable correlation between measures of creativity and IQ only in low to average IQ samples, with no correlation in groups with higher IQ (Jauk et al., 2013). The complex relationship between critical and creative thinking, as outlined by the hypothesis, suggests that once the cognitive baseline is met at 120, other factors such as personality traits, intrinsic motivation, and environmental factors come into play to determine a person’s creative potential (Jauk et al., 2013).
Criticisms and Challenges
Despite the prolific nature of this theory and the traction it gained when it was first released among the academicians, it remains highly criticised today. Multiple studies have been able to both support and reject the hypothesis in varied settings, raising questions about the nature of the study (Weiss et al., 2020). Despite the theory’s emphasis on the fact that creativity is not a byproduct of intelligence, many support the total abandonment of the theory on the basis that it fails to produce consistent results (Weiss et al., 2020).
The Neurological Perspective
While theories will keep arguing over the nature and relatedness of both creative and critical thinking, one can always turn to more tangible sources of information, away from behaviour and psychometric testing: the neurological pathways. Studies using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), as well as various intelligence batteries and tasks that trigger creative thinking, suggest that while distinct constructs, creativity and intelligence draw upon overlapping neural connections in the brain (Frith et al., 2019).
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The Two Key Brain Networks
Two integral systems of the brain, which overlap to explain the relation between creativity and intelligence, are the Default Mode Network (DMN) and Executive Control Network (ECN). While the former is associated with spontaneous thought and novel associations leading to creativity (Beaty et al., 2014), the latter is typically associated with planning, attention and problem solving, which are integral parts of intelligence (Barbey et al., 2012). However, research suggests that creative thinking is tied to both these systems (Chen et al., 2025). Even the capacity to dynamically switch between these robust brain networks supports both spontaneous and controlled cognition (Chen et al., 2025).
Shared Neural Architecture
Furthermore, research into the structural and functional capacities of the brain has pointed out that general intelligence and creative ability share over 46% of their functional neural connections (Frith et al., 2019). The large correlation between intelligence and creativity is most associated with the prefrontal cortex (Kowatari et al., 2008). From a neurological perspective, intelligence and creativity remain interconnected systems that rely on similar neural networks, yet function distinctly.
Overvaluing One Type of Thinking
Whether it is creative thinking or critical thinking, depending on cultures and values, there is a tendency to prefer one. Overvaluation of either type of cognitive process can lead to missed potential, narrow thinking and even limited solution-finding capacity.
The Danger of Overvaluing One Side
A proclivity towards intelligence measured by standardised tests and grades rewards convergent thinking and suppresses the urge to seek novel solutions. It limits cognitive flexibility, leaving little to no room for exploration, allowing only the ‘tried and tested’ solutions to prevail. On the other hand, the proclivity towards creativity without emphasis on structure can lead to impracticality. The basic framework given by Intelligence acts as a guide for free-flowing creativity, which ensures coherence in thought and goal-directed behaviour.
A Case for Cognitive Coexistence
It is important to value both intelligence and creativity as two separate yet interlinked constructs. For without one, the other will fall short in the pursuit of solutions to the ever-changing environmental obstacles. This remains of great importance to educational endeavours, hiring practices and even talent enhancement programs, which should aim to develop both. Truly understanding the complex relationship between these cognitive constructs will only sid holistic development.
Conclusion
“Are Intelligence and Creativity interlinked?” This question has no single answer, at least not one that has been supported by scientific findings in the modern day. However, one can not deny the existence of a complex relationship between these constructs either. Despite their distinctive nature, both critical and creative thinking remain essential for adaptive functioning and foster true innovation, which aids the development of the world. The study of the connection between creativity and intelligence suggests that both the genius thinker and creative visionary boast impressive cognitive abilities, which might be more similar than previously imagined.
ALSO READ: Impact of Personality Traits on Cognitive Abilities
FAQs
1. Can someone be highly intelligent but not creative?
The tests of intelligence that are currently in use measure a wide variety of types of intelligence and indicate it with the Intelligence Quotient or IQ. An individual can do well on these tests for several reasons, such as cognitive capacity, proclivity towards standardised tests and even practice effect. However, a high IQ need not demonstrate strong creative abilities. Especially since creativity encompasses cognitive flexibility, risk-taking taking and other personality or motivational factors, an individual can be intelligent yet not a creative thinker.
2. Can Intelligence and Creativity be developed over time?
Yes. While genetic influence on Intelligence and creativity remains undeniable, individuals can take consistent efforts to build upon both these cognitive capacities. Through practice, exposure to novel situations and learning, one can develop both.
3. Can a person with intellectual deficits be creative?
Creativity is not solely dependent on high intellectual functioning. While intelligence, which supports problem solving, may be thwarted in those with intellectual deficits, other cognitive capacities function optimally, allowing creativity to thrive.
4. Is creativity linked to the right hemisphere and intelligence to the left?
This is a common myth. Many people believe intelligence is linked to the brain’s left hemisphere, while creativity lies in the right hemisphere. This has led to a simplified idea of people being either “left-brained” or “right-brained.” Such labels often reflect their tendency toward convergent or divergent thinking. However, research has rejected this oversimplified idea. Studies show that both creativity and intelligence involve both brain hemispheres.
They also engage the prefrontal cortex, which is key in higher cognitive processes.
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