Compare and Contrast Introverts and Extroverts Essay Example

Susan Cain’s 2012 book  “Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking” introduces readers to the New Groupthink, a system where schools and workplaces encourage teamwork to accomplish tasks. On the surface it may sound positive but the New Groupthink is actually more disadvantageous than beneficial for two main reasons; it reduces creativity and productivity.

Although many might argue that teamwork is significantly more productive than independent work, according to studies from the Institute of Personality Assessment and Research at the University of California, Berkeley (IPSR) have proven that there are more creative introverts than creative extroverts. “These findings don’t mean that introverts are always more creative than extroverts, but they do suggest that in a group of people who have been extremely creative throughout their lifetimes, you’re likely to find a lot of introverts”. This statement suggests that group work might actually reduce the creativity of individuals.

Another claim to support this argument is “One of the most interesting findings, echoed by later studies, was that the more creative people tended to be socially poised introverts. They were interpersonally skilled but “not of an especially sociable or participative temperament.” They described themselves as independent and individualistic. As teens, many had been shy and solitary”. The IPSR also explain the reason why introverts tend to creative, But there’s a less obvious yet surprisingly powerful explanation for introverts’ creative advantage—an explanation that everyone can learn from: introverts prefer to work independently, and solitude can be a catalyst to innovation.

As the influential psychologist Hans Eysenck once observed, introversion “concentrates the mind on the tasks in hand, and prevents the dissipation of energy on social and sexual matters unrelated to work.” In other words, if you’re in the backyard sitting under a tree while everyone else is clinking glasses on the patio, you’re more likely to have an apple fall on your head”. 

In conclusion, due to the evidence from the IPSR, the New Groupthink is disadvantageous towards creative people. Based on the research, it’s proven that individual workers are held back by the constant pressure of having to work in a group. This applies to both schools and workplaces.