The relationship between epistemic curiosity and creativity: Research status and educational implications

Creativity is a core driver of social development and technological progress. Epistemic curiosity (EC), as an important intrinsic motivation, is a prerequisite for creativity. Understanding the cognitive and neural mechanisms through which EC affects creativity is the “golden key” to cultivate top-notch innovative talents based on cognitive and neural principles and stimulate the innovative vitality of talents. In this paper, we have combined research evidence from behavioral and neuroimaging studies, introduced the basic concepts of EC and creativity, reviewed and evaluated prior empirical research and several theoretical perspectives linking EC and creativity. Additionally, we have discussed the shared characteristics of EC and creativity as well as the cognitive and neural mechanisms associated with them. Then, we have proposed several practical suggestions to fostering and promoting EC as a means to enhancing creativity. These suggestions serve as a foundation and inspiration for future research and educational practices and provide a theoretical framework for cultivating innovative talents. Finally, we indicated possible directions for future research on the relationship between EC and creativity.