Analysing the theoretical roots of technology emergence: an evolutionary perspective

Serhat Burmaoglu (), Olivier Sartenaer (), Alan Porter () and Munan Li ()
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Serhat Burmaoglu: Izmir Katip Celebi University
Olivier Sartenaer: University of Cologne
Alan Porter: Georgia Institute of Technology
Munan Li: South China University of Technology

Scientometrics, 2019, vol. 119, issue 1, No 5, 97-118

Abstract: Abstract There has been much research concerning emergence in technology, ever since knowledge has been accepted as a prime engine of economic growth. However, even though there are a growing number of publications, the concept remains ambiguous. In this study, we aim to trace emergence discussions to find the evolution of related concepts, in order to explore usage in the technological context. To achieve this, the philosophy of science, complexity, and economic literatures are reviewed in accordance with the emergence concept qualitatively. Then, a bibliometrics study is performed to strengthen the qualitative argument and find evidence of emergence in technology studies for comparison. Based on the findings, we can assert that the definition of technology emergence needs to be revised with consideration of its theoretical foundations. Moreover, after discussion, research questions are posed for future research.

Keywords: Emergence; Technology emergence; Emerging technology; Evolution; Conceptual evolution (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (8)

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DOI: 10.1007/s11192-019-03033-y

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