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On a Branching Route: The Spectrum of Path Dependency in Policy Research

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  • Beyer, Jürgen

Abstract

This article describes the evolution of the discussion around the concept of path dependence, which has established itself as an explanatory framework in various academic disciplines, including policy research. It outlines the diversity of conceptual ideas, presents efforts at specification that have helped to further multiply the interpretive possibilities of the concept, and illustrates the application of the concept in social and environmental policy. In the two policy fields, the concept is significant for the scientific debate in different ways, which indicates that the meaning of concepts is shaped by the respective discussion environment. The article shows that the ambiguity of the concept has not hindered its further application. There are now many different plausible reference points for dealing with the concept of path dependence in policy research.

Suggested Citation

  • Beyer, Jürgen, 2024. "On a Branching Route: The Spectrum of Path Dependency in Policy Research," SocArXiv 4nhxk, Center for Open Science.
    • Handle: RePEc:osf:socarx:4nhxk
    DOI: 10.31219/osf.io/4nhxk
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