The subjectivity of the creative class in an archetypal perspective

Over the past two decades sociological discourse has demonstrated growing interest in the cultural and symbolic sources of social actors’ activity. This is particularly relevant in relation to the creative class – a social group that combines innovative thinking, digital competencies, and creative potential. This community is capable of acting consciously, influencing social processes, making decisions, and taking responsibility for their consequences. To gain deeper insights into the mechanisms of this stratum’s actions, the article applies an archetypal approach. Archetype theory enables not only the typologisation of personalities but also the interpretation of deep social action scenarios that shape thinking, leadership style, and innovative behaviour. This approach helps to explain why the creative class is both diverse and united by shared values – freedom, a drive to create, and responsibility for social transformation. The study attempts to analyse the subjectivity of the creative class through the lens of archetypal analysis, with a focus on the IT sector, grounded in C. Jung’s analytical psychology and its further sociological interpretation. In this context, five key archetypes are examined for their role in shaping the identity and subjectivity of the creative class in modern society. These archetypes, rooted in the Jungian tradition and the cultural theory of archetypes (C. Jung, J. Campbell, K. Pearson, etc.), are used as symbolic models representing various aspects of self-awareness, agency, and the functional role of the creative class in the information society. Particular attention is given to the Creator archetype, which embodies the central dynamics of self-realisation, cultural production, and ethical autonomy – qualities typical of members of the creative class. Special emphasis is placed on the Ukrainian context, particularly the IT sector, where archetypal roles manifest in volunteer initiatives, digital creativity, and the development of start-up culture. The significance of the archetypal structure is substantiated as an interpretative tool for a deeper understanding of the social impact of this emerging stratum. Overall, the study contributes to expanding the understanding of the creative class as a subject of not only economic but also cultural transformation in contemporary society

Archetype · Social theory · Sociological theory · Subjectivity · The Symbolic · Creativity in Education and Neuroscience · Cultural Industries and Urban Development · University-Industry-Government Innovation Models

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