What does path dependency refer to?

Path dependency refers to the idea that the decisions and events of the past shape and limit the possibilities for the future. Specifically, it emphasizes how certain historical developments can lead to specific outcomes that may seem unexpected or unfortunate but are heavily influenced by earlier decisions or events. This concept suggests that the course of social, economic, and political outcomes is often determined by history, which can create a situation where the future is constrained by the past.

For example, in the context of economic development, a country that has invested heavily in specific industries may find itself locked into those industries due to the infrastructure, skills, and institutions that have been built around them. Consequently, even if new technologies emerge or market conditions change, the historical investments and commitments can limit options, creating a path-dependent trajectory.

In contrast, other options relate to different concepts: cultural dependence on technology addresses how cultural norms are influenced by technological changes; contemporary decisions shaping outcomes focus on agency and the idea that current choices determine future circumstances; and the unique characteristics of social movements highlights the distinct aspects that define and distinguish social movements from one another. While these are all valuable sociological ideas, they do not capture the specific notion of how historical paths influence current and future scenarios as path dependency does.