| Qualitative examination of the evolution of fiber optics technology suggests that it belongs to a class of technologies called 'general purpose technology.' This technology is characterized by (1) a broad range of applications, (2) a small time frame in which a range of these applications are developed, and (3) a small time to market for these applications. These characteristics influence the way in which the technology evolves. Further, the qualitative exploration of evolution also suggests that the evolution of technology differs depending on the factor that is being considered. Specifically, I found that the stages of evolution can be defined by (1) technical attributes, (2) market attributes, and (3) socio-political forces.;I examine the variation of search behavior by using the patent data. I find that exploration of knowledge is different in different stages of evolution as defined by each of these attributes. Specifically, the technological attribute influences the search for vintage knowledge; the market attribute influences the search for internal knowledge; and, the sociopolitical forces influence the search for domestic knowledge.;This thesis contributes to various streams of literature. Specifically, this thesis contributes to institutional and evolutionary theories by examining the effect of macro-factors such as market dynamics and protection policies on micro-processes such as exploration. Further, this thesis by presenting the qualitative history of fiber optics contributes to technology history studies. Finally, this thesis contributes to policy studies by exploring the effects of policies on research behavior and evolution of a technology. |
