Title: Creativity in rural development: an Australian response to Florida (or a view from the fringe)

Authors: Tony Sorensen

Addresses: School of Human and Environmental Studies, University of New England, Armidale NSW 2351, Australia

Abstract: The role of creativity in place development is contentious. Florida|s work on the creative class has achieved cult status among some academics, but is excoriated by others. I am one of those who are convinced of the large and growing role of creative people in economic and social development, but who dissents from major sections of Florida|s analysis, especially his profound urban bias. This article explains why I believe that creativity is crucial for regional development, a view that other academic geographers hold and explores the weaknesses of Florida|s urban bias. The first task is fundamental for an exploration of the latter.

Keywords: Australia; creativity; rural development; creative class; economic development; social development.

DOI: 10.1504/IJFIP.2009.022097

International Journal of Foresight and Innovation Policy, 2009 Vol.5 No.1/2/3, pp.24 - 43

Published online: 18 Dec 2008 *

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