Examining the role of 'creative class' ideas in urban and economic policy formation: the case of Dublin, Ireland
by Philip Lawton, Enda Murphy, Declan Redmond
International Journal of Knowledge-Based Development (IJKBD), Vol. 1, No. 4, 2010

Abstract: Throughout the last decade the 'creative class' thesis has received significant attention within academic and policymaking circles. This paper analyses the role of the 'creative class' thesis within recent urban and economic policy formation in Dublin. In methodological terms, the study uses in-depth analysis of recent policy documents which is supplemented by interviews with key stakeholders involved in the formulation and implementation of policy at various scales. The paper argues that weaknesses in the structure of local government and current fiscal rectitude in Ireland combined with the flexible nature of Florida's 'creative class' ideas have ensured its easy adaptability as 'fast policy'. Here we focus on two particular areas of policy formation: 'place-making' and the formation of new networks of power. We contend that the shortcomings of this approach are based on the lack of causal evidence linking the promotion of a 'vibrant place' with economic prosperity and the lack of democratic accountability within the formation of networks of elite actors.

Online publication date: Thu, 13-Jan-2011

The full text of this article is only available to individual subscribers or to users at subscribing institutions.

 
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.

Pay per view:
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.

Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Knowledge-Based Development (IJKBD):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:

Username:        Password:          Forgotten your password?

Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.

If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com