The article discusses the concept and structure of creativity, factors influencing its formation and development, the role of creativity in society, the need to develop students' skills of creative thinking in the educational process, as well as the features of initiative, the upbringing of the next generation. The factors influencing the formation and development of human creative thinking are considered from a philosophical, psychological, sociological point of view, based on the experience and scientific research of leading scientists and influential international organizations working in this field. This article also provides a comprehensive analysis of the concepts of creativity and creative thinking based on foreign and local sources.