The Triple Helix, Quadruple Helix, …, and an N-Tuple of Helices: Explanatory Models for Analyzing the Knowledge-Based Economy?

• DOI: 10.1007/s13132-011-0049-4
• Publication Date: 2011-06-17T22:52:48Z
• Authors: Loet Leydesdorff
• Keywords: Helix (gastropod)

Using the Triple Helix model of university–industry–government relations, one can measure extent to which innovation has become systemic instead assuming existence national (or regional) systems innovations on a priori grounds. Systemness patterns, however, be expected remain in transition because integrating and differentiating forces. Integration among functions wealth creation, knowledge production, normative control takes place at interfaces organizations, while exchanges market, scholarly communication political discourse tend differentiate globally. The neo-institutional neo-evolutionary versions enable us capture this tension reflexively. Empirical studies inform whether more than three helices are needed for explanation. indicator extended algorithmically, example, with local–global as fourth dimension or, generally, an N-tuple helices.