Similarities Between Creativity and Politics as Forms of Praxis

Abstract

This paper explores the notion that particular theories of political action can provide a parallel for creative action. Advancing a process of social analysis which makes use of dialectics and hermeneutics, a strong case is made for considering the context and setting as significant factors effecting actions. Similarities between political and creative actions are asserted. For example theories of political action may inform the way basic norms can be applied in the justification and determination of individual creative performance and achievement. The practical value of political or creative actions it is suggested is assessed through public performance. The author also comments on the continued maintenance of creativity as a sufficient value base for art education, arguing that such emphasis on novel performance is misdirected and at the expense of epistemic traditions and the sociocultural context.