Proximity and Distance in Knowledge Relationships: From Micro to Structural Considerations based on Territorial Knowledge Dynamics (TKDs)

Joan Crespoa & Jérôme Vicenteb*a Urban and Regional Research Centre Utrecht, Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 2, NL-3584 CS, Utrecht, the Netherlands. Email: b LEREPS, Sciences-Po Toulouse, University of Toulouse, Manufacture des Tabacs, 21 allée de Brienne, F-31000 Toulouse, FranceEmail: vicente@ut-capitole.frCrespo J. and Vicente J. Proximity and distance in knowledge relationships: from micro to structural considerations based on territorial knowledge dynamics (TKDs), Regional Studies. Among the key parameters identified in territorial knowledge dynamics (TKDs), this paper focuses on the balance and trade-off between proximity and distant relations, especially as far as knowledge relationships are concerned. This entry is investigated through an original process consisting in combining micro-motives for knowledge relationships and structural properties of resulting knowledge networks, always paying attention to the balance between proximity and distance. From the information available in EURODITE case studies and the presentation of the methodology, the micro-foundations of proximity and distance in knowledge relationships are explored according to the knowledge trade-off and the complex knowledge value chain that typify the modern knowledge process. Based on these micro-considerations, a structural analysis of TKDs is inferred that provides significant patterns of their structuring. From these patterns policy implications are extracted which show that collaborative incentives on some particular missing links fit better with effective policies than the common view of ‘connecting people’ policies.