Creative Intelligence Essays in the Pragmatic Attitude   By: George H. Mead

In George H. Mead's collection of essays, "Creative Intelligence: Essays in the Pragmatic Attitude," readers are taken on a profound journey into the world of philosophy and social psychology. Mead leaves no stone unturned as he explores the intricate nuances of human consciousness and the role it plays in shaping our society.

One of the most striking aspects of this book is Mead's ability to articulate complex ideas with remarkable clarity. He seamlessly bridges the gap between theoretical abstractions and practical applications, making this work accessible to both scholars and general readers alike. Mead's prose is eloquent yet free from unnecessary technical jargon, allowing readers to engage with his ideas without feeling overwhelmed.

Throughout the essays, Mead presents a cogent argument for the significance of creative intelligence in societal development. He emphasizes the importance of individuals' ability to think outside the box and adapt to changing circumstances. In doing so, he challenges the traditional notion of intelligence solely being measured by conventional academic standards. Mead advocates for a more comprehensive understanding of intelligence, one that accounts for the creative and flexible thinking necessary for progress.

Additionally, Mead delves into the role of language in shaping our perceptions and actions. He explores how language is not merely a tool for communication, but a powerful force that influences our thoughts and behaviors. This discussion is particularly intriguing, as it sheds light on the intricate relationship between language and our sense of self.

While some of the concepts discussed in this book can be intellectually demanding, Mead's writing style ensures that readers are engaged throughout. He supports his arguments with notable examples and draws on a range of interdisciplinary sources, making his ideas well-grounded and compelling.

One of the book's strengths lies in its ability to spark introspection. Mead's essays encourage readers to reflect upon their own thought processes, the cultural influences that shape their perspectives, and the potential for personal growth through creative intelligence. This self-reflective element adds depth to the reading experience, leaving a lasting impact on readers long after they have put the book down.

Though "Creative Intelligence: Essays in the Pragmatic Attitude" was first published over a century ago, its relevance remains undiminished. Mead's insights into the complexities of human consciousness and social interaction continue to resonate in our ever-changing world. This book serves as a timeless reminder of the power and significance of creative intelligence in both personal and societal development.

In conclusion, George H. Mead delivers a thought-provoking and enlightening collection of essays in "Creative Intelligence: Essays in the Pragmatic Attitude." Through his accessible language and compelling arguments, Mead challenges conventional notions of intelligence and offers a fresh perspective on the role of creativity in societal progress. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in philosophy, psychology, and the dynamics of human interaction.

First Page:

The Essays which follow represent an attempt at intellectual coöperation. No effort has been made, however, to attain unanimity of belief nor to proffer a platform of "planks" on which there is agreement. The consensus represented lies primarily in outlook, in conviction of what is most likely to be fruitful in method of approach. As the title page suggests, the volume presents a unity in attitude rather than a uniformity in results. Consequently each writer is definitively responsible only for his own essay. The reader will note that the Essays endeavor to embody the common attitude in application to specific fields of inquiry which have been historically associated with philosophy rather than as a thing by itself. Beginning with philosophy itself, subsequent contributions discuss its application to logic, to mathematics, to physical science, to psychology, to ethics, to economics, and then again to philosophy itself in conjunction with esthetics and religion... Continue reading book >>