Simulating Innovation
Christopher Watts and Nigel Gilbert explore the generation, diffusion and impact of
innovations that can now be studied using computer simulation models. Agent-based models,
in particular, offer explanations for the phenomena of innovation that emerge from
interactions among complex, adaptive and diverse networks of firms, people, technologies,
practices and resources. This book provides a critical review of these recent advances.
Elements explored include the diffusion of innovations, social networks, organisational
learning, science models, science and technology studies, technological evolution and
innovation networks.
Contents: Preface
1. Why Simulate Innovation?
2. The Variability and Variety of Diffusion Models
3. Diffusion and Path Dependence in a Social Network
4. Explore and Exploit
5. Science Models
6. Adopting and Adapting: Innovation Diffusion in Complex Contexts
7. Technological Evolution and Innovation Networks
8. Conclusions Bibliography
352 pages, Hardcover