How creativity can help research on the multiple values of nature become more innovative and inclusive

[摘要] The global environmental situation presents humans with challenges of unprecedented complexity, and research into the multiple values of nature aims to inform decision-making in the context of this complexity. Research suggests that creativity can be a crucial tool in confronting complexity, crises and novel situations. I argue that research into the multiple values of nature should intentionally seek and embrace creativity in approaches, methods and techniques. I draw on diverse fields to summarize the importance of creativity in navigating complex situations and crises. I present specific strategies drawn from the literature on creativity and innovation and link them to research on the multiple values of nature. These strategies are: Define the problem carefully and intentionally; be inspired by others' work; nurture scepticism and be open-minded; don't use only words; iterate and ‘fail early, fail often'; and embrace teamwork. I describe each strategy, then offer thoughts on how each relates to research on the multiple values of nature. To conclude, I address caveats to the use of creativity in multiple-values-of-nature research and suggest the transformative role that rich, collaborative and creative study of the multiple values of nature may play. A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.

[学科分类] 护理学

[关键词] cultural ecosystem services;innovation;plural valuation;problem-solving;relational values;social values