Scenius

Brian Eno coined the term "scenius," or collective genius. The root idea is that when certain criteria are met, a "scene" develops its own momentum, creative energy, prolificness. . . In a time and place characterized by scenius, the group of people involved develop their own collective style, elaborated individually by each participant. They influence each other at a rapid pace, and in fact are one another's greatest inspirations. Often individual famous artists we remember were inextricable parts of such scenes. Think the Beats. Think the Italian Renaissance. You get the idea.

Several ingredients for scenius, illuminating why it's so spontaneous and tough to replicate:

* Mutual appreciation -- Risky moves are applauded by the group, subtlety is appreciated, and friendly competition goads the shy. Scenius can be thought of as the best of peer pressure.
* Rapid exchange of tools and techniques -- As soon as something is invented, it is flaunted and then shared. Ideas flow quickly because they are flowing inside a common language and sensibility.
* Network effects of success -- When a record is broken, a hit happens, or breakthrough erupts, the success is claimed by the entire scene. This empowers the scene to further success.
* Local tolerance for the novelties -- The local "outside" does not push back too hard against the transgressions of the scene. The renegades and mavericks are protected by this buffer zone.

Something to aim for. Check out Kevin Kelly's blog The Technium for more.