We are now in a position to consider as a whole the model of genius and creativity that I have been at pains to construct from a variety of writers, psychologists and interested scientists. There are some novel aspects, but essentially the novelty lies in my attempt to make personality differences central to the argument. Previously personality traits were indeed studied, but were never given the central position I believe they deserve. The early indication that mental ability (IQ) is only loosely correlated with creativity has not usually been interpreted to suggest that creativity is not an ability, but a cognitive style closely related with psychoticism. It may be useful to set out the general theory in diagrammatic form (Fig. 8.1).

We start inevitably with heredity, embodied in a person's DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). Practically all the variables we have found associated with creativity and genius have a genetic component. Creativity is associated physiologically with the hippocampal formation, and with the level of activity of dopamine and serotonin, the former heightening, the latter lowering creativity (regarded as a trait). It is suggested that their influence is directly on cognitive inhibition, i.e. cognitive factors like latent inhibition and/or negative priming, which reduce the tendency towards over-inclusiveness indicative of psychoticism, and, when lacking, in extreme form produce functional psychosis (schizophrenia; manic-depressive illness), and in lesser extent creativity. Thus, through the widening associative horizon associated with lack of latent inhibition and/or negative priming, psychoticism is closely linked with the trait of creativity.

Possessing this trait, however, does not guarantee creative achievement.