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The Creative Brain: How Insight Works

Episode 8 of 18

Series exploring topical scientific issues. This edition looks at how scientists are using some unusual techniques to understand how moments of creativity come about.

It is a feeling we all know - the moment when a light goes on in your head. In a sudden flash of inspiration, a new idea is born.

Today, scientists are using some unusual techniques to try to work out how these moments of creativity - whether big, small or life-changing - come about. They have devised a series of puzzles and brainteasers to draw out our creative behaviour, while the very latest neuroimaging technology means researchers can actually peer inside our brains and witness the creative spark as it happens. What they are discovering could have the power to make every one of us more creative.

1 hour

Can you solve this tricky triangle puzzle?

Can you solve this tricky triangle puzzle?

How can you arrange 6 rods to make 4 equilateral triangles, where each side of each triangle is the full length of a rod?

The answer was hidden in the programme – but you'll have had to watch carefully to spot it.

Credits

Role Contributor
Writer Kate Dart
Director Kate Dart

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