Social Change, Identity, and Collective Action
All documents for this subject (1)
Seller
Follow
leonoeli123
Content preview
Explaining the Stability of the Socio-Economic System: Path Dependence
Leon Oelschläger
i6197632
l.oelschlager@student.maastrichtuniversity.nl
04.04.2024
EUS3021
Social Change, Identity, and Collective Action
Group 2
Tutor: John Parkinson Final Essay, Question 2
, Question 2: The concept of path-dependence seems to suggest that political change
is at least very difficult, even unlikely – that while we get beguiled by superficial change, the
fundamentals of socio-political systems stay the same. Is that the case? Discuss with reference
to concrete examples.
1. Introduction
Several social scientists apply a rather positivist understanding to their field,
attempting to contribute to the development of political science, which incorporates, at least
to a certain degree, generalizable and predictive power. Even though it is widely
acknowledged that the social world has its very own rules and implications, which complicate
social science research and knowledge production, inaccurate argumentations have been
largely dominant in political science (Pierson, 2000, p. 263). In an article that has received
remarkable attention, Paul Pierson (2000) introduces “path dependence” grounded in
dynamics of “increasing returns”, a concept borrowed from economics. While both his
adjustment of an economic concept and its application to political science can be seen as an
interesting and innovative contribution, Pierson (2000, p. 265) himself admits that his “new”
approach has major similarities with historical institutionalism.
This essay deals with Pierson’s concept of “path dependence” and its implications for
political change. If Pierson is right, fundamental change appears to be very difficult, slow, and
even unlikely. Arguably, path dependence is a useful concept and reinforcing mechanisms an
under-considered factor in explaining the stability of socio-economic systems. However, the
main argument of this essay is that the role of both culture and the economic sphere are
neglected by Pierson even though they are crucial factors to analyze path dependence and
particularly increasing returns. Additionally, it is concluded that path dependence indeed
implies that fundamental change is difficult to achieve, while it enables a more accurate
analysis. Nevertheless, culture can arguably be the key to achieve change.
First, the concept and its’ implications for political processes are introduced. Second, a
critical perspective on Pierson’s conceptualization is presented, especially his strict
demarcation of the economic and political spheres. Third, a suggestion for linking the concept
to culture and economic aspects is provided to enable a sharper analysis of stability and
change. Lastly, a conclusion summarizes the arguments and reflects on the possibilities and
implications of fundamental and moderate change and the overall potential of the concept.
1
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller leonoeli123. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for $8.36. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.