Transition versus transformation: What’s the difference?

• DOI: 10.1016/j.eist.2017.10.007
• Publication Date: 2017-11-01T01:00:22Z
• Authors: Katharina Hölscher; Julia M. Wittmayer; Derk Loorbach
• Keywords: ESSB PA; SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy; 01 natural sciences; 0105 earth and related environmental sciences

'Transition' and 'transformation' have become buzzwords in political scientific discourses. They signal the need for large-scale changes to achieve a sustainable society. We compare how they are applied interpreted literatures explore whether distinct concepts provide complementary insights. Transition transformation not mutually exclusive; nuanced perspectives on describe, interpret support desirable radical non-linear societal change. Their differences may partially result from their etymological origins, but largely stem different research communities concerned with either transition or transformation. Our review shows respective approaches understanding interpreting system change can enrich each other.