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Relational Distance: Sociocultural and Time–Spatial Tensions in Innovation Practices

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  • Oliver Ibert

    (Research Department 1 Regionalization and Economic Spaces, Leibniz Institute for Regional Development and Structural Planning (IRS) in Erkner, Flakenstrasse 28-31, 15537 Erkner, Germany
    Institute of Geographical Sciences, Free University of Berlin, Malteserstrasse 74-100, 12249 Berlin, Germany)

Abstract

The author discusses and explores empirically how far the notion of relational distance might improve understanding of the geography of innovation processes. Relational distance is regarded (1) as a multidimensional concept which becomes fruitful when used in a heuristic way; (2) as an interactional effect; and (3) as being enacted in practice. The author illustrates this understanding empirically by presenting an ethnographic case study: the development biography of an analytical device. In this case, relational distance emerged between science and business. The author scrutinizes how relational distance not only induces cultural tensions but also intertwines divergent practical activities unfolding differently in space. Thereby it generates dynamic time–spatial ambiguities: namely, effects of dislocation, ambiguities of knowledge allocation, and opportunity costs.

Suggested Citation

  • Oliver Ibert, 2010. "Relational Distance: Sociocultural and Time–Spatial Tensions in Innovation Practices," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 42(1), pages 187-204, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envira:v:42:y:2010:i:1:p:187-204
    DOI: 10.1068/a4247
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ibert, Oliver & Müller, Felix C., 2015. "Network dynamics in constellations of cultural differences: Relational distance in innovation processes in legal services and biotechnology," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 44(1), pages 181-194.
    2. Axel Stein, 2014. "The Significance of Distance in Innovation Biographies—The Case of Law Firms," Growth and Change, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 45(3), pages 430-449, September.
    3. Heidi Wiig Aslesen & Roman Martin & Stefania Sardo, 2019. "The virtual is reality! On physical and virtual space in software firms’ knowledge formation," Entrepreneurship & Regional Development, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 31(9-10), pages 669-682, October.
    4. Martin M�ller & Allison Stewart, 2016. "Does Temporary Geographical Proximity Predict Learning? Knowledge Dynamics in the Olympic Games," Regional Studies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 50(3), pages 377-390, March.
    5. Hera Antoniades & Dulani Halvitigala & Chris Eves, 2018. "CoWorking Space v. The Traditional Office Space: Challenges and Opportunities in Sydney," ERES eres2018_294, European Real Estate Society (ERES).

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