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In this paper, research and development, knowledge and creativity are analysed within the context of economic development theory. It is demonstrated that size and spatial structure play an important part in the creative process. Furthermore, it is argued that only a very limited set of policy conclusions can be drawn from non‐spatial theories of R & D. A vital concept is the “creative region,” of which very few examples are encountered in each historical period. Historically, Vienna stands out as an interesting example. Today, regions such as the San Francisco Bay Area, Shinkansen, and Milano would be of potential interest for closer scrutiny as possible creative regions.
Åke Andersson (1985) studied this question.