The creative class.
He calls it “the rise of the creative class”. American economist and social scientist Richard Florida means that people working within the creative industries are the key driving force to future economic development. And this class is not only comprising designers and people in the advertising industry; it encompasses jobs “whose economic function is to create new ideas, new technology and/or creative content” – also including scientists, engineers, university professors and so on.
Creativity on the rise
In other words, creativity is a larger part of society than one might think. And the area is growing. Florida points to the fact that less than 5 % of the U.S. population was a part of the creative class back in the 60’s, whilst this number has risen to 40 % today. The numbers for Europe is almost the same, he states in his book.
Novelty needed
The creative class is not only the super-creative core. Although Mr. Florida’s broad term is widening its impact, he has an important point that creativity is becoming more valued nowadays. A focus on creating meaningful new forms should be the absolute basic for work that is future proof. Some of us need (and want) to focus on creating new solutions, and not just continue with “same procedure as always”. So keep up the good (creative) work!
…And check out the video if you like!
