Innovation: genealogical and historical context

Abstract

This essay explores the history of the concept of “innovation” and suggests a genealogical history for it through three concepts: imitation, invention, and innovation itself, which have all defined innovation at different times throughout history. The essay 
identifies the theories and concepts surrounding innovation, including the tension between imitation and invention in the past, and how this tension has been resolved with the emergence of the idea of innovation. The essay employs a historical research methodology to examine the evolution of the concept over time using both secondary sources and 
original research. The author highlights the role of politics in shaping the concept of innovation, and how experts, particularly economists, have been engaged in its study to help government policies and understand its complexities. It, finally, asserts that 
this work provides a preliminary outline and program for the genealogy of innovation, emphasizing its social construction and complex development.