Boundary Objects and Institutional Ecology
경계물 이론
An STS and organizational theory explaining how artifacts, diagrams, or classifications maintain enough plasticity to adapt to local needs while preserving a robust common identity across diverse intersecting communities.
| Field | Science & Technology Studies · Sociology |
|---|---|
| Level of analysis | Meso · Groups & Organizations |
| Paradigm | Pragmatism Network Approach |
| Key figures | 👤 Susan Leigh Star (수전 리 스타) 👤 James R. Griesemer (제임스 그리시머) |
| Year | 1989 |
Key Claims
Susan Leigh Star and James Griesemer demonstrated that scientific work involves cooperative heterogeneous actors who do not share common goals. ‘Boundary objects’ are weakly structured in common use but strongly structured in individual site work, enabling collaboration without consensus.
Further Reading
- Star, S. L., & Griesemer, J. R. (1989). Institutional ecology, ‘translations’ and boundary objects: Amateurs and professionals in Berkeley’s Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, 1907–39. Social Studies of Science, 19(3), 387–420.
Related theories 3개
A foundational theoretical framework in sts addressing Actor-Network Theory at the meso level of analysis.
A foundational theoretical framework in sts addressing The Social Construction of Technology at the meso level of analysis.
A sociocultural learning theory proposing that learning is situated in authentic social practices, occurring through "legitimate peripheral participation" within communities of practice (CoP).
Theories pointing to this one 2개
A Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) framework demonstrating that artifacts possess interpretive flexibility, shaped by technological frames held by relevant social groups until closure is achieved.
A sociocultural learning theory proposing that learning is situated in authentic social practices, occurring through "legitimate peripheral participation" within communities of practice (CoP).