The multiple-theories problem: The case of spatial industrial clustering

Abstract

<p>Multiple theories of the same phenomenon abound in many interdisciplinary research areas, but it<br>is often unclear how the theories relate, and there are no clear guidelines for dealing with this<br>plurality. The history of research on spatial industrial clustering is a case in point. We identify a<br>number of solutions to the problem of multiple theoretical accounts proposed in this literature.<br>We label them definitional, taxonomic, integrative, and multi-perspectival. We then offer the<br>erotetic solution as an indispensable complement to any attempt at resolving the multiple-theories<br>problem. It accounts for theoretical plurality in terms of different explanation-seeking questions<br>different theories aim to address. We analyse three prominent explanations in the recent history<br>of research on spatial industrial clustering and show how the erotetic approach can contribute to<br>foster interdisciplinary dialogue.<br></p>