The New Creative Class Crisis: A Critical Review of Creative Class Theory

Abstract

Since its emergence in 2002, Creative Class Theory (CCT) has served as a leading twenty-first century model of urban and socioeconomic development. The purpose of this research is to conduct an extensive literature review to inquire into debates surrounding CCT and address the implications and blindspots of the CCT model. Firstly, a historical overview is conducted to understand the context of the ideological resonances of the theory. Secondly, critical analysis is undertaken to examine major criticisms of the CCT and the evolution of the model as a response. Furthermore, case study analysis is used to highlight the practical applications of the CCT model, which illustrate instances of resistance due to the CCT's inaccuracies and negative implications. Finally, the discussion section inquires into the aforementioned conversation surrounding the theory, which establishes the socioeconomic understanding of CCT as both a neoliberal and a neo-Marxist model. This is analysis motivated by the need better understand the CCT’s agendas to avoid further uncritical application of the CCT by relevant urban stakeholders.