Peoples & Things Matthew Wisnioski on the History of the Idea and Culture of “Innovation” in the United States
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Jun 30, 2025 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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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.
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.
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.
