The Journal of Responsible Innovation recently published a paper by Alejandra Boni (Ingenio-TIPC) Diana Velasco (Ingenio-Deep Transitions Lab) and Bipashyee Ghosh (UCL-TIPC). This paper explores how the concept of human capabilities can improve the analysis and practical considerations of directionality within Transformative Innovation Policy (TIP). The authors use concepts such as freedom, agency, and conversion factors to examine directionality.
Conventional science, technology and innovation (STI) policies often prioritise technological advancements, neglecting to sufficiently consider broader social and environmental dimensions. While technological innovation is an essential part of development, achieving sustainable development requires a more inclusive approach. Additionally, enhancing the focus on justice within these policies would also benefit TIP.
The approach chosen by Boni, Velasco and Ghosh examines the six principles developed by the Transformative Innovation Policy Consortium (TIPC) in 2019 for formulating innovation policies with transformative potential. In the new proposal, directionality is the guiding principle, which embraces four other principles: Orienting towards societal goals; Adopting a systemic perspective; Learning and reflexivity and democratic decision-making.
According to Boni “the idea was to reflect on the core principles of TIP as it was understood by TIPC. The emphasis on democracy came as one of the main additions to TIPC principles.”
The paper argues that TIP can benefit from applying the Capability Approach (CA) to evaluate its direction. The CA may not be a theory of social justice, but it offers valuable insights that can improve the analysis of the directionality of innovation policy within the TIP framework.
Engaging in a “fertile dialogue with the CA” can help address the failures of innovation, steering it towards sustainable and equitable transformation pathways. This perspective aids in the of a strong framework for TIP, one that can drive systemic, fair, and inclusive innovation.
The paper can be accessed in full here.