Evolution of path dependence and lock-in with the knowledge mining analysis of Web of Science literature

Studies on path dependence (PD) and lock-in have indicated several limitations, such as chaotic literature information, interdisciplinarity complexity, and evolution vagueness. In this study, literature on path dependence and lock-in are obtained from the database of Web of Science Core Collection from 2001 to 2017. The knowledge mining model of the evolution of path dependence and lock-in is constructed based on knowledge mining process and content. The evolution of this area is also explored. Results show that the evolution of path dependence and lock-in can be categorized as follows: (1) English, American, and German scholars have led the research on path dependence and lock-in. (2) The research topics have undergone four stages. (3) The research levels have been classified as policy system (macro-level), regional economy (meso-level), and organizational path dependence (micro-level). (4) The research design can be represented as theory basis, case discussion, lock-in or reformation, and path creation. (5) The research method can be transformed from case study into lock-in mathematical modeling. A panoramic knowledge mapping of path dependence and lock-in is displayed by the research system to enhance understanding on research trajectories and future research directions.