KNOWLEDGE NETWORK STRUCTURES: EVOLUTIONARY AND SOCIAL ASPECTS
Alexander Mikhaylovich Zharov
Institute of Philosophy, Moscow, Russia
Keywords: actornetwork theory, knowledge network structures, digitalization, scientific cooperation, interdisciplinary research, evolutionary dynamics, social interactions, technological innovation, dissemination of knowledge, artificial intelligence
Abstract
The study conducted with the use of the actornetwork theory (ANT) reveals the complex dynamics of the evolution and diffusion of knowledge in network structures, which has intensified with the emergence of digital technologies. Examining the relationship between evolutionary progress and the social dimension, the author shows how scientific dialogues and collaboration extend beyond the traditional disciplinary boundaries and help to create an environment in which innovation arises at the intersection of interdisciplinary interactions. As a conceptual framework, ANT allows to trace the complex interactions of human and nonhuman actors, reveal the nuances of the mechanisms through which knowledge networks are created, discussed and transformed. Through a number of examples covering fields from bioinformatics to ecology, the key role of technology in accelerating the “crosspollination” of ideas and methodologies over large, often disparate scientific areas is highlighted. Critical consideration of ANT in this context provides nuanced understandings of its capabilities and limitations in the fight against the complexities of contemporary scientific initiatives. An integrative theoretical framework is proposed that harmoniously combines ANT with systemic and critical realist perspectives. This study contributes to the theoretical and practical discourse on the evolution of scientific knowledge by emphasizing the central role of networks and digital technologies in shaping a more interrelated and dynamic scientific enterprise.
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