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The Increasing Importance of Geographical Proximity in Knowledge Production: An Analysis of US Patent Citations, 1975–1997

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  • Jung Won Sonn

    (Bartlett School of Planning, University College London, Wates House, 22 Gordon Street, London WC1H 0QB, England)

  • Michael Storper

    (Department of Geography and Environment, London School of Economics, Houghton Street, London WC2A 2AE, England; and Institute of Political Studies, 98 rue de l'Université, 75007 Paris, France)

Abstract

Much literature suggests that knowledge-production activities are still heavily dependent upon geographically proximate sources of information, in spite of rapid development in telecommunications technology. Some analysts believe that the importance of proximity in knowledge production will eventually disappear with the continued development of telecommunications. The authors analyse patent citations and find that, after controlling for the existing distribution of knowledge-production activities, the proportion of local citations has increased over time. This finding reinforces the notion that in contemporary knowledge production and innovation the role for geographical proximity is increasing.

Suggested Citation

  • Jung Won Sonn & Michael Storper, 2008. "The Increasing Importance of Geographical Proximity in Knowledge Production: An Analysis of US Patent Citations, 1975–1997," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 40(5), pages 1020-1039, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envira:v:40:y:2008:i:5:p:1020-1039
    DOI: 10.1068/a3930
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