Heterogeneous cooperation refers to a type of innovation for which the contributions of many different groups of actors are necessary, but a process of unification does not take place. This chapter presents two prominent approaches from science and technology studies that conceptualize different aspects of heterogeneous cooperation. The first concept presented is “boundary objects.” These objects have a vague meaning that is relevant for many groups of actors and at the same time a specific meaning that is only relevant for certain groups of actors. If the internal connection between these two references is maintained, these objects can coordinate the cooperation of the social groups involved. The second concept presented is zones of circulation, particularly “transversal regimes.” These are characterized by the stabilization of multiple crossings of social boundaries which constitute a unique form of social order. The modes of coordination delineated in both concepts also determine the type of empirical phenomena to which the two concepts can be meaningfully applied.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Heterogeneous Cooperation, Boundary Objects, and Boundary Zones

  • Martin Meister

摘要

Heterogeneous cooperation refers to a type of innovation for which the contributions of many different groups of actors are necessary, but a process of unification does not take place. This chapter presents two prominent approaches from science and technology studies that conceptualize different aspects of heterogeneous cooperation. The first concept presented is “boundary objects.” These objects have a vague meaning that is relevant for many groups of actors and at the same time a specific meaning that is only relevant for certain groups of actors. If the internal connection between these two references is maintained, these objects can coordinate the cooperation of the social groups involved. The second concept presented is zones of circulation, particularly “transversal regimes.” These are characterized by the stabilization of multiple crossings of social boundaries which constitute a unique form of social order. The modes of coordination delineated in both concepts also determine the type of empirical phenomena to which the two concepts can be meaningfully applied.