New publication on artificial photosynthesis

Newly published in Social Studies of Science:

Path creation as a discursive process: A study of discussion starters in the field of solar fuels

Eugen Octav Popa , Vincent Blok, Cornelius Schubert and Georgios Katsoukis

Abstract
When a technology is seen as the right solution to a recognized problem, the development of
alternative technologies comes under threat. To secure much-needed resources, proponents
of alternative technologies must, in these conditions, restart societal discussion on the status
quo, a process at once technological and discursive known as 'path creation'. In this article, we
investigate discussion-restarting strategies employed by supporters of emerging technologies
in the field of solar fuels, particularly the advocates of a technology referred to as 'artificial
photosynthesis'. For illustrative purposes we explore four such strategies: revisiting weak
spots, resizing the problem, redefining the game, and renegotiating labels. We conclude
with a methodological reflection on the empirical study of discursive strategies in a sociotechnical
system. We further suggest a more systematic application of discourse-analytical
and argumentation-theoretical insights that can complement current scholarship on path
dependence and path creation.

https://doi.org/10.1177/03063127241271024