That alcohol provides a benefit to creative processes has long been assumed by popular cul- ture, but to date has not been tested. The current experiment tested the effects of moderate alcohol intoxication on a common creative problem solving task, the Remote Associates Test (RAT). Individuals were brought to a blood alcohol content of approximately .075, and, after reaching peak intoxication, completed a battery of RAT items. Intoxicated individuals solved more RAT items, in less time, and were more likely to perceive their solutions as the result of a sudden insight. Results are interpreted from an attentional control perspective.
For reference, 0.75 .075 BAC is 3 drinks an hour for someone who weighs 150lbs. In related news, here are spiders on LSD.
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March 13, 2012 at 2:08 pm
soxsail
For reference, 0.75 alcohol level is probably dead.
0.075 is somewhere near the scale you’ve suggested, although it could vary widely depending on genes, food consumption and tolerance. Plenty of 150 lb people are above .08 (the legal limit in most states) after 3 or even 2 drinks.
March 13, 2012 at 2:10 pm
jeff
🙂 fixed it.
March 14, 2012 at 1:10 pm
Alex F
Either way, .075 BAC should not be described as “peak intoxication.” 🙂