So it would be my opinion that logic, that you often promote, and making an analysis of life, are the most important things. Imagination is great for engineers, but analysis is vital for everyone, even though most do not do it. You referred to the personal “national security” policing we have in our minds, And it is a very good metaphor, too. it is what makes us terrified of doing any analysis or investigation of life. but because the mental security force inside us is so strong and reinforced, it is not likely that many will overcome their internal security/defense and venture into analyzing life, which one might only consider doing if one was detecting some contradictions in the world they were living in.
So the first step would be a level of alertness that one would acquire thru birth and parenting. Without that first step of investigating a contradiction, no one can advance till that is done and accepted, and then more analysis to follow. Its pretty much a case of luck and circumstance as to who will pursue it or not. But comparison and analysis are primary. I say that comparison and analysis will lead to imagination, which is rather instinctive, any way.