Domain

The set of representations that underlie and support thinking in a specific area of knowledge; also, any specific area of knowledge (Baer, 1999). In the system approach to creativity, domain is defined as a cultural, or symbolic aspect of environment (Csikszentmihalyi 1999). Domain in an essential element for defining creativity because "creativity occurs when a person makes a change in a domain, a change that will be transmitted through time" (ibid., 315). Ariety (1976) lists the following domains of creativity: wit; poetry and aesthetic process; painting; music; religious and mystical experiences; science; philosophy (including general system theory). See also multiple intelligences and microdomain.