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Threshold models of technological transitions

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  • Paolo Zeppini
  • Koen Frenken
  • Roland Kupers

Abstract

We present a systematic review of seven threshold models of technological transitions from physics, biology, economics and sociology. The very same phenomenon of a technological transition can be explained by very different logics, ranging from economic explanations based on price, performance and increasing returns to alternative explanations based on word-of-mouth recommendation, convergence of expectations, or social mimicking behaviour. Our review serves as a menu for future modelling exercises that can take one or more elementary transition models as a basis, and extend these model to fit more specific sectoral, technological or territorial contexts.

Suggested Citation

  • Paolo Zeppini & Koen Frenken & Roland Kupers, 2013. "Threshold models of technological transitions," Working Papers 13-06, Eindhoven Center for Innovation Studies, revised Aug 2013.
    • Handle: RePEc:ein:tuecis:1306
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    3. Vollaro, Michele & Galioto, Francesco & Viaggi, Davide, 2017. "The circular economy and agriculture: new opportunities for re-using Phosphorus as fertilizer," Bio-based and Applied Economics Journal, Italian Association of Agricultural and Applied Economics (AIEAA), vol. 5(3), February.

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