Abstract
Transition modelling is an emerging but growing niche within the broader field of sustainability transitions
research. The objective of this paper is to explore the characteristics of this niche in relation to a range
of existing modelling approaches and literatures with which it shares commonalities or from which it could
draw. We distil a number of key aspects we think a transitions model should be able to address, from a broadly
acknowledged, empirical list of transition characteristics. We review some of the main strands in modelling
of socio-technological change with regards to their ability to address these characteristics. These are: Ecoinnovation
literatures (energy-economy models and Integrated Assessment Models), evolutionary economics,
complex systems models, computational social science simulations using agent based models, system dynamics
models and socio-ecological systems models. The modelling approaches reviewed can address many of the
features that di erentiate sustainability transitions from other socio-economic dynamics or innovations. The
most problematic features are the representation of qualitatively di erent system states and of the normative
aspects of change. The comparison provides transition researchers with a starting point for their choice of a
modelling approach, whose characteristics should correspond to the characteristics of the research question
they face. A promising line of research is to develop innovative models of co-evolution of behaviours and technologies
towards sustainability, involving change in the structure of the societal and technical systems.
Originalsprache | Englisch |
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Seiten (von - bis) | 24-46 |
Seitenumfang | 23 |
Fachzeitschrift | JASSS The Journal of Artificial Societies and Social Simulation |
Volume | 21 |
Issue | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publikationsstatus | Veröffentlicht - 2018 |
Research Field
- Ehemaliges Research Field - Innovation Systems and Policy
Schlagwörter
- Transitions Models
- Qualitative System Change
- Modelling Social Values and Norms
- Behavioural