Punctuated Equilibrium Theory and the Diffusion of Innovations

Graeme Boushey · 2012 · Policy Studies Journal

Summary. Punctuated equilibrium theory explains how public policy innovations spread across U.S. states through three distinct mechanisms: gradual emulation, rapid imitation between states, and immediate responses to shared external shocks. Using the Bass diffusion model on 81 policy innovations, the research measures how external and internal influences drive adoption patterns and shows that policy image and federal involvement shape diffusion timing and speed.

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Boushey, G.. (2012). Punctuated Equilibrium Theory and the Diffusion of Innovations. Policy Studies Journal. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1541-0072.2011.00437.x

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  title   = {Punctuated Equilibrium Theory and the Diffusion of Innovations},
  author  = {Graeme Boushey},
  journal = {Policy Studies Journal},
  year    = {2012},
  doi     = {10.1111/j.1541-0072.2011.00437.x},
  url     = {https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1541-0072.2011.00437.x}
}

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AU  - Graeme Boushey
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Details

DOI: 10.1111/j.1541-0072.2011.00437.x
Countries: United States
Regions: North America
Categories: policy, innovation-theory, general-innovation
Added: 2026-04-28