Transition theory and its discontents (its critique)

Transition theory, or socio-technical transition theory, is a quite popular theory at technical universities and elsewhere to explain changes in society, especially those supposedly driven by technological changes. It has a long history and has its benefits. But has also received important and fruitful critique, in particular how it tends to disregard politics, political economy and power, inequality, and social justice. These are of course foundational aspects of society so if you have chosen transition theory as your theory, these critiques are important to acknowledge. Below I have started to add a reading list of what I see as good critiques of transition theory.

I have no time now to fill this reading now so here is a start:

Articles that developed the perspective:

Geels, Frank W. 2002. “Technological Transitions as Evolutionary Reconfiguration Processes: A Multi-Level Perspective and a Case-Study.” Research Policy 31(8–9):1257–74. doi: 10.1016/S0048-7333(02)00062-8.

Berkhout, Frans. 2003. “Socio-Technological Regimes and Transition Contexts.”

Geels, F., and J. Schot. 2007. “Typology of Sociotechnical Transition Pathways.” Research Policy 36(3):399–417. doi: 10.1016/j.respol.2007.01.003.

CRITIQUES of transition theory (as formulated by Geels, Berkhout et al)

Meadowcroft, J., 2011. Engaging with the politics of sustainability transitions. Envi- ronmental Innovation and Societal Transitions 1, 70–75.