That alcohol provides a benefit to creative processes has long been assumed by popular culture, 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.
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