The Smithsonian's Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation focuses on several key research themes that explore the multifaceted nature of invention and innovation.
These themes include:
- The Process of Invention: This theme examines how inventions come to be, looking at the steps inventors take, the challenges they face, and the creative processes involved in developing new technologies and products.
- Inventors and Innovators: This research area focuses on the people behind the inventions. It looks at the lives, motivations, and backgrounds of inventors and innovators, as well as the networks and communities that support them.
- Technological and Social Impact: This theme explores the broader impact of inventions on society and culture. It investigates how new technologies change the way people live, work, and interact, as well as the societal and ethical implications of technological advancements.
- Invention and Education: This theme addresses how invention and innovation are taught and learned. It looks at educational programs, strategies for fostering creativity and problem-solving skills, and the role of formal and informal education in supporting inventors.
- Historical and Cultural Context: This research area places inventions within their historical and cultural contexts. It examines how the time and place in which an invention is developed influence its creation and adoption, and how inventions reflect and shape cultural values and practices.
- Sustainability and the Environment: This theme investigates the relationship between invention and the environment. It looks at how inventors address environmental challenges, develop sustainable technologies, and the impact of new inventions on ecological systems.
- Intellectual Property and Patents: This research theme focuses on the legal and economic aspects of invention. It examines how intellectual property laws, patents, and trademarks affect inventors, innovation, and the dissemination of new technologies.
These themes guide the Lemelson Center's research, exhibitions, educational programs, and publications, aiming to deepen the understanding of the invention process and its significance in society.