In search of the origins of novelty : exploring novel combinations in allopatric speciation

Innovation theory tends to focus on the carrying of invention into innovation rather than the emergence of an invention itself. In evolutionary terms, innovation theory focuses on selection and retention rather than on the creation of new variety. This paper aims to develop an understanding of the mechanisms that generate variety. To do so, we will make use of the insights provided by the evolutionary concept of ‘allopatric speciation’ in order to inform us on how and under which conditions novelty comes about. We interpret this notion in the context of interfirm innovation networks and discuss the emergence of two new industries in the Netherlands, the multimedia industry and the pharmaceutical biotechnology industry. The empirical analysis indicates that novelty indeed originates in allopatric speciation, although how this occurs differs between the two industries. 1 Chair of Innovation Policy, funded by the province of Noord-Brabant and the city of Tilburg.