Creativity and networks in cultural industries: Addressing the role of individual cognition

The study of creativity in cultural industries from a relational approach is a recent but promising area of research. Fundamentally, extant debate focuses on the investigation of what kind of networks, namely weak or strong ties, are more conducive to creative outcomes. In doing so, the role played by individuals’ cognition with regard to their network has been overlooked. Whereas the actual characteristics of networks affect creativity by being conduits that help individuals to gain access to relevant resources (information, knowledge, social support, etc.), the results of individual action in terms of creativity is affected also by how individuals perceive their networks. Drawing on previous research on cognitive networks, this paper investigates whether and how individuals’ cognition of their networks affects their creativity. In order to test our hypotheses, we conduct a quantitative study by administering a questionnaire to the employees of an Italian video producing company.