Computers are actually pretty good at creativity if you instill it into them. One approach that I have found to work is first to create a bunch of random combinations using smaller pieces and then to apply curious filters to the output. In many ways, the human brain works using brute force too, but the process is usually filtered out from conscious awareness. Nevertheless, it would be nice to have something of a creativity framework that simplified the process.
> In many ways, the human brain works using brute force too
I strongly disagree. It doesn't always do brute force. It mostly works on assumptions and testing the scenario against the assumptions made. Validating and refining the assumptions to closely model reality. This is also correlated with why superstitions were very much prevalent in primitive societies. They worked as a rule of thumb.
If it mostly worked by brute force, we would be extinct by now. I know that's a little far stretched to say, but i strongly feel that's how dangerous it could get if the brain always did brute force.
Being intuitive about the world.
Learning.