Year:    1969

Author:    Siebert, Horst

Journal of Contextual Economics – Schmollers Jahrbuch, Vol. 89 (1969), Iss. 5 : pp. 513–539

Abstract

Learn Theoretical and Search Theoretical Aspects of New Technical Knowledge

New technical knowledge is explained as the outcome of learning processes and search behavior. A stimulus-sample model is constructed from some basic axioms. Learning is defined as a change in the conditioning of a stimulus-sample to a specific reaction. A learning curve is derived that describes the learning process as a change in the absolute probability of an actor for a specific reaction. In a learning model an actor requires new knowledge by discovering a feed back of reality on his goal realization. This feed back can also be searched for systematically. New technical knowledge then becomes a result of a search process. The determinants of search behavior are discussed. The search result depends on (]) the problem structure of reality, (2) the existing stock of knowledge, (3) the amount of search resources used and (4) the timing of the search means. The formal structure of a search problem is discussed and the search for new technical knowledge is compared to military search problems. Whereas learning is not anticipated, searching is a planned process. Over the phases of economic development learning processes are substituted by search behavior. A complete substitution is, however, unlikely. First, both approaches refer to different phenomena. Thus, in the air plane industry, the search strategy of parallel development is used; and in the same industry learning occurs in the construction of air frames, i.e. with a rising number of air frames constructed the time requirement per air frame decreases. Second, a comprehensive anticipation of problem solution through search cannot be expected due to lacking information on the future. Third, learning can take place in the process of search. - The article discussed the economic implications of the learn theoretical and search theoretical explanations of new technical knowledge