The Concept of Creativity in Art and in Science: Are Autistic People Creative?

Abstract

Usually, autism is said to be characterized by certain difficulties related to lack of creativity. In this paper, based on the arguments offered by McKenzie and paying attention to the neurodiversity perspective, it is held that the concept of creativity has not been understood correctly, and that, if the artistic field is considered, it can be stated that people with autism can be creative, because creativity can be linked to repetition and details. In this way, it is argued that the repetitive and thorough actions that autistic people often make can have beneficial impacts on art, on the development of scientific knowledge, and on social progress in general.