Progressive Path-Dependency?

Abstract

Path-dependency is typically associated with a “lock-in” that is suboptimal. The sub-optimality of this “lock-in” is attributed to a degree of ceremonial encapsulation, eroding instrumentality, whereby network effects, technical and/or behavioral, create a state of irreversibility. However, all new ideas and technologies are ceremonially encapsulated to a degree, as they are socially embedded. Yet when the term path-dependency is invoked, it often has a negative connotation implying there is a preferable alternative: a state of no ceremonial encapsulation or pure-instrumentality? If so, this implies ceremonial habits of thought are merely there to be overcome. Yet ceremonial habits of thought are ever-present. This article, therefore, theorizes progressive institutional adjustment by considering how we can account for ceremonial habits of thought as more than a barrier, but also something to be utilized to facilitate change. By using rhetoric as a tool, we can play into ceremonial habits of thought, weaving policy through the ceremonial net to implementation where its instrumentality can be revealed, and a lock-in can form as constituents become accustomed to the material benefits provided. It is here where a progressive path-dependency is formed.