Reconfiguration, contestation, and decline: conceptualizing mature large technical systems
Date
2018-11
Authors
Sovacool, Benjamin K.
Lovell, Katherine
Ting, Marie Blanche
Version
Published version
OA Version
Citation
B.K. Sovacool, K. Lovell, M.B. Ting. 2018. "Reconfiguration, Contestation, and Decline: Conceptualizing Mature Large Technical Systems." Science, Technology and Human Values, Volume 43, Issue 6, pp.1066-1097. https://doi.org/10.1177/0162243918768074
Abstract
Large technical systems (LTS) are integral to modern lifestyles but arduous to analyze. In this paper, we advance a conceptualization of LTS using the notion of mature "phases," drawing from insights into innovation studies, science and technology studies, political science, the sociology of infrastructure, history of technology, and governance. We begin by defining LTS as a unit of analysis and explaining its conceptual utility and novelty, situating it among other prominent sociotechnical theories. Next, we argue that after LTS have moved through the (overlapping) phases proposed by Thomas Hughes of invention, expansion, growth, momentum, and style, mature LTS undergo the additional (overlapping) phases of reconfiguration, contestation (subject to pressures such as drift and crisis), and eventually stagnation and decline. We illustrate these analytical phases with historical case studies and the conceptual literature, and close by suggesting future research to refine and develop the LTS framework, particularly related to more refined typologies, temporal dimensions, and a broadening of system users. We aim to contribute to theoretical debates about the coevolution of LTS as well as empirical discussions about system-related use, sociotechnical change, and policy-making.
Description
License
Copyright The Author(s) 2018 This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International.