Matthew Wisnioski, a Professor of Science, Technology, and Society at Virginia Tech, discusses his book, 'Every American an Innovator,' exploring how innovation in America evolved from elitist perspectives to encompass diverse voices, including women and people of color. He emphasizes the government's crucial role in promoting innovation and reflects on societal changes in perceptions of the innovator. Wisnioski also dives into how children contribute to innovation culture and hints at his upcoming project about 'The Magic School Bus,' highlighting education's impact on creativity.
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insights INSIGHT
Innovation's Deep Historical Roots
Innovation as a culture and practice in the US developed over the past 80 years through distinct groups shaping its vision.
This framework shaped society, institutions, and individual identities significantly.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Discovery of Innovation Magazine
Matt found Innovation Magazine from the late 60s in Princeton's library, sparking his interest in innovation history.
The magazine profiled entrepreneurial efforts mixing profit and social repair, foundational for his research.
insights INSIGHT
When Innovation Was New
Innovation emerged in the 1930s-60s as experts in technology, sociology, economics, and psychology independently shaped the field.
Everett Rogers' diffusion of innovations became a unifying framework, crowning the "innovation expert" identity.
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Men and Women of the Corporation examines the ways in which gender shapes the experiences of employees in large organizations. It explores the barriers that women face in achieving success in the workplace, such as discrimination, stereotyping, and lack of access to opportunities. The book also analyzes the ways in which organizations can create a more equitable and inclusive environment for women. It argues that organizations must address the systemic biases that perpetuate gender inequality and create a culture that values diversity and inclusion.
Every American an Innovator
Every American an Innovator
How Innovation Became a Way of Life
Matt Wisnioski
Every American an Innovator examines the cultural history of innovation in the United States, revealing its profound impact on various aspects of society. The book traces the evolution of innovation from its early origins to its contemporary manifestations. It also analyzes the ways in which innovation has been shaped by various cultural, economic, and technological forces. It offers a critical perspective on the role of innovation in shaping our lives and offers insights into the future of innovation. The book also highlights the transformative effects on our institutions and inner selves, arguing that the pursuit of innovation has become a defining characteristic of American life.
Peoples & Things host, Lee Vinsel, talks with Matt Wisnioski, Professor of Science, Technology, and Society at Virginia Tech, about his new book, Every American an Innovator: How Innovation Became a Way of Life. The pair talk about how the new book connects to Matt’s earlier book, Engineers for Change; how what Matt calls “innovation expertise” first emerged; how government played a key role in promoting the idea of innovation; how the idea of innovation was democratized from focusing on elite white men to focusing on women, people of color, children, and, well, everyone; and much more. Vinsel and Wisnioski also talk about Matt’s current book project with Michael Meindl, Associate Professor of Communication at Radford University - a history of the television show and multimedia product, The Magic School Bus.
Peoples & Things