A morphogenetic approach to the evolution of technological capabilities

In this paper we lay out the cognitive foundations for analyzing the dynamics for technological regimes, which are defined as macro-properties or patterns. Following a cognitive approach these latter are based on a grammar and rules, which are in turn created and evolve during techno-productive problem solving activity. The arrival point of the analysis is a tentative explanation of the evolution of socio-technical systems according to the dynamic matching of multiple elements, which act at different dimensions (micro, meso and macro). The research line is developed by embedding some suggestions drawn on the morphogenetic approach, as defined by Archer (1995). In order to escape from the quagmire caused by the dichotomy micro/macro and the respective risks of “downwards conflation” (individualism) and “upwards conflation” (holistic view of a social whole), we take up an approach aiming at discussing the linkages between structure and agency. By adopting this theoretical perspective interdependencies and interplay between interacting elements become central units of analysis.