Towards an integrated conceptual framework for understanding transition dynamics

Abstract

There are several explanations for the dynamics of transition in terms of theories and frameworks. While they describe the same phenomenon, the concepts and processes that they use to explain the dynamics are varied. Some are at different levels of aggregation including dynamics in micro-level actors’ behaviours, meso-level emerging systems’ formation, and macro-level existing systems’ interactions. This theoretical disparity, as advocated in literature, can be a pitfall in understanding the dynamics. This paper reviews the theoretical concepts and processes and explores their strengths and limitations in describing transition dynamics. It also attempts to identify the complementary features that address their individual limitations. For all approaches reviewed in this study, central questions include: what changes occur during the transition, when it happens, why it takes place, and how it appears. The assessment of theoretical approaches is a step towards developing an integrated conceptual framework for the improved understanding of transition dynamics.