Critical links in knowledge networks. What about proximities and gatekeeper organizations?

Tom Broekel () and Wladimir Mueller

No 1711, Papers in Evolutionary Economic Geography (PEEG) from Utrecht University, Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning, Group Economic Geography

Abstract: The paper analyzes links in knowledge networks that are essential for the integration and knowledge diffusion properties of the entire network. By focusing on critical links, as defined in network science, we evaluate these linksÕ properties from the perspective of the proximity and regional gatekeeper literature. We thereby gain insights into likely conditions of their emergence and functions. Moreover, we extend the dyadic perspective on regional gatekeeper organizations and link it more strongly to the network science and proximity framework literature. An empirical study applies these arguments and investigates the proximity characteristics of critical links in 132 technology-specific subsidized knowledge networks in Germany. The results show that critical links tend be formed between regional gatekeepers that offer related knowledge resources. The links bridge institutional distances by utilizing the benefits of geographic and social proximity.

Keywords: proximities; knowledge networks; gatekeeper; R&D subsidies; critical links (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D85 L14 O33 R10 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2017-06, Revised 2017-06
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-dcm, nep-geo and nep-ure
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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http://econ.geo.uu.nl/peeg/peeg1711.pdf Version June 2017 (application/pdf)

Related works:
Journal Article: Critical links in knowledge networks – What about proximities and gatekeeper organisations? (2018)
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:egu:wpaper:1711

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