If You Throw That Again, You'll Have to Sit with the Grownups!

Abstract

Professor Barlow shares that Liberal Arts Symposium at Juniata College is a celebration of student creativity, inspired by John Cleese’s concept of playful exploration and influenced by UCLA psychologist Donald MacKinnon's research on creativity. Despite societal norms that discourage unconventional thinking, the symposium encourages students to embrace a childlike approach to creativity, fostering resilience and innovation. Professor Barlow emphasizes that by challenging established norms and engaging in adversarial collaboration reminiscent of the Constitutional Convention, participants cultivate a sense of wonder and openness.