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Beyond a better mousetrap: A cultural analysis of the adoption of ethanol in Brazil

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  • Nardon, Luciara
  • Aten, Kathryn

Abstract

Complex technologies develop within technological systems that include, in addition to discrete technologies, organizations (e.g., manufacturing firms, investment banks), scientific elements (e.g., teaching and research programs), and legislative elements (e.g., regulations). The tangible aspects of technologies do not alone determine their end configuration or success; rather, social and cultural practices, expectations, and relationships influence the development of technologies just as technologies influence these factors. We argue that culture provides actors with logic principles with which to construct action, influencing the trajectory of technological systems by reinforcing a process of path dependent development. We analyze the case of ethanol adoption in Brazil. Brazil's adoption of an ethanol-fueled transportation system derives from a pattern of adaptation in response to salient issues. We argue that a unique characteristic of Brazilian culture, jeitinho, influenced the development of the Brazil's ethanol-fueled transportation system.

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  • Nardon, Luciara & Aten, Kathryn, 2008. "Beyond a better mousetrap: A cultural analysis of the adoption of ethanol in Brazil," Journal of World Business, Elsevier, vol. 43(3), pages 261-273, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:worbus:v:43:y:2008:i:3:p:261-273
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    Cited by:

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    2. Rathmann, Régis & Szklo, Alexandre & Schaeffer, Roberto, 2012. "Targets and results of the Brazilian Biodiesel Incentive Program – Has it reached the Promised Land?," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 97(C), pages 91-100.
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    5. Welch, Catherine & Piekkari, Rebecca, 2017. "How should we (not) judge the ‘quality’ of qualitative research? A re-assessment of current evaluative criteria in International Business," Journal of World Business, Elsevier, vol. 52(5), pages 714-725.

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