In essence, adaptive capacity is applied creativity. It is the ability to look at a problem or crisis and see an array of unconventional solutions. Adaptive capacity includes the quality Keats found essential to the genius of Shakespeare–negative capability.

This gift, the poet explained in an 1817 letter to his younger brothers, is evident “when man is capable of being in uncertainties, mysteries, doubt without any irritable reaching after fact and reason.”

Those with negative capability may have considerable regard for fact and reason, but they also realize the wisdom of entertaining opposing views at the same time.

from Geeks & Geezers: How Era, Values, and Defining Moments Shape Leaders
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Gender-inclusive version:

In essence, adaptive capacity is applied creativity. It is the ability to look at a problem or crisis and see an array of unconventional solutions. Adaptive capacity includes the quality Keats found essential to the genius of Shakespeare–negative capability.

This gift, the poet explained in an 1817 letter to his younger brothers, is evident “when people are capable of being in uncertainties, mysteries, doubt without any irritable reaching after fact and reason.”

Those with negative capability may have considerable regard for fact and reason, but they also realize the wisdom of entertaining opposing views at the same time.

from Geeks & Geezers: How Era, Values, and Defining Moments Shape Leaders