In this paper we adopt a dynamic perspective on networks and creativity to propose that the oft-theorized creative benefits of open networks and heterogeneous content are less likely to be accrued over time if the network is stable. Specifically, we hypothesize that open networks and content heterogeneity will have a more positive effect on creativity when network stability is low. We base our prediction on the fact that over time network stability begets cognitive rigidity and social rigidity, thus limiting individuals’ ability to make use of the creative advantages provided by open networks and heterogeneous content. On the contrary, new ties bring a positive “shock” that pushes individuals in the network to change the way they organize and process knowledge, as well as the way they interact and collaborate – a shock that enables creators to accrue the creative advantages provided by open network structures and heterogeneous content. We test and find support for our theory in a study on the core artists who worked on the TV series Doctor Who between 1963 and 2014.

中文翻译：

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网络、创造力和时间：通过经纪和网络复兴保持创造力

在本文中，我们采用网络和创造力的动态视角，提出如果网络稳定，开放网络和异构内容的经常理论化的创造性收益不太可能随着时间的推移而累积。具体来说，我们假设当网络稳定性较低时，开放网络和内容异质性将对创造力产生更积极的影响。我们的预测基于这样一个事实：随着时间的推移，网络稳定性会导致认知僵化和社会僵化，从而限制了个人利用开放网络和异构内容提供的创造性优势的能力。相反，新关系带来积极的“冲击”，促使网络中的个人改变他们组织和处理知识的方式，以及他们互动和协作的方式——一种冲击，使创作者能够积累开放网络结构和异构内容提供的创作优势。我们在对 1963 年至 2014 年间参与电视剧神秘博士的核心艺术家的研究中测试并找到对我们理论的支持。