The Rise of the Amateur

As access to new technologies becomes easier and cheaper, a whole swathe of industries look set to cower under a wave of “democratisation”. But is amateurism really on the rise?

As access to new technologies becomes easier and cheaper, a whole swathe of industries look set to cower under a wave of “democratisation”. From amateur journalists scooping newspapers to independent pop bands circumventing the power of radio stations, the hard-working amateur – variously called PRO-AM, amateur professional, prosumer or passionate amateur – seems to have been granted a new role. But is amateurism really on the rise? And if it is, is this blurring of the lines between professionals and amateurs is a good thing or not?
Speakers: D.J. Taylor, literary critic and biographer: Marysia Lewandowska, London-based artist and co-producer of Enthusiasm. Films of Love, Longing and Labour which included material from amateur film clubs active in Poland.
Participating chair: Charles Leadbeater, writer, idea entrepreneur and author of the Pro-Am Revolution: How enthusiasts are changing our economy and society.

Register to tell a friend about this lecture.

Comments

If you would like to comment about this lecture, please register here.

©2003-2006 Niminim Limited. Created by

Any ad revenue is entirely reinvested into the Lecture List's operating fund