Definitionv1
Path dependence: the phenomenon where past decisions and
Path dependence: the phenomenon where past decisions and historical constraints systematically limit current and future options by creating self-reinforcing structures and accumulated investments that make alternative paths economically or practically inaccessible
Why This Is a Definition
This definition precisely establishes path dependence as a cognitive and structural phenomenon by identifying its genus (phenomenon of limiting options) and differentia (systematic limitation through self-reinforcing structures and accumulated investments). It distinguishes it from simple causation or memory effects by emphasizing the structural constraint mechanism.