Hypnosis, Psychedelics, and Creativity: An Overview and Analysis

Abstract

Alterations in consciousness have long been used to enhance creativity. Here, we focus on the ways in which hypnosis and psychedelics alter consciousness to enhance creativity, drawing on both research and first-hand accounts. The research utilizes standard measures of creativity as well as assessments of artistic, musical, and work-related problem-solving ability. First-hand accounts of scientific discovery offer individual perspective on creativity via personal experience. Various mechanisms of how altered states may enhance creativity are explored including the roles of positive mood, flow, heightened senses, tapping into the unconscious, variations in thought processes (i.e. the Dynamic Framework of Thought Theory), and spiritual inspiration. Finally, limitations and future directions are addressed.