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Interactive knowledge exchanges under complex social relations: A simulation model

Author

Listed:
  • Cowan, Robin

    (UNU-MERIT/MGSoG, Maastricht University, and BETA, Universite de Strassbourg)

  • Kamath, Anant

    (UNU-MERIT/MGSoG)

Abstract

This is a model of knowledge exchange by means of informal interaction among agents in low technology clusters. What this study seeks to do is to colour these exchanges by placing them in an environment of complex social relations, test whether the small-world network structure is the most favourable for knowledge exchanges in these environments, and explore the influence of social relations and network distance. These enquiries are the contribution of this model to the existing series of studies on efficient network structures for knowledge diffusion. We find that the small-world network structure may not be the best network structure for highest and most equitable knowledge distribution, when knowledge exchanges are undertaken in environments of complex social relations. Also, we confirm that the highest and most equitable knowledge distribution is achieved when there is perfect affinity among the agents.

Suggested Citation

  • Cowan, Robin & Kamath, Anant, 2013. "Interactive knowledge exchanges under complex social relations: A simulation model," MERIT Working Papers 2013-004, United Nations University - Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (MERIT).
    • Handle: RePEc:unm:unumer:2013004
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    File URL: https://www.merit.unu.edu/publications/wppdf/2013/wp2013-004.pdf
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    Citations

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    Cited by:

    1. Samia Nour, 2014. "The Importance (Impacts) of Knowledge at the Macro–Micro Levels in the Arab Gulf Countries," Journal of the Knowledge Economy, Springer;Portland International Center for Management of Engineering and Technology (PICMET), vol. 5(3), pages 521-537, September.
    2. Nour, Samia Satti Osman Mohamed, 2013. "The importance and impacts of knowledge at the macro-micro levels in the Arab Gulf countries," MERIT Working Papers 2013-016, United Nations University - Maastricht Economic and Social Research Institute on Innovation and Technology (MERIT).
    3. Lugasi, Solomon Omwoma & Odhiambo, Mercy Auma, 2022. "Implementation of Technology and Innovation Support Centers (TISCs) in Kenya: Challenges and opportunities," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 68(C).

    More about this item

    Keywords

    Knowledge Exchanges; Small-Worlds; Social Networks; Complex Social Relations;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D85 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Network Formation
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes
    • Z13 - Other Special Topics - - Cultural Economics - - - Economic Sociology; Economic Anthropology; Language; Social and Economic Stratification

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