0 a theory of evolution that claims that change happens suddenly over short periods of time followed by long periods of no change --
1 a theory of evolution (= change in the development of living things) that claims that change happens suddenly over short periods of time followed by long periods of no change --
Change occurs by the gradual operation of natural forces over time, perhaps slowly, perhaps more quickly (see punctuated equilibrium).
As some researchers have noted, the biological applications of punctuated equilibrium have rejuvenated a new theory about change within entities.
Unfortunately, he does not distinguish properly between gradualness\abruptness and constant pace\ punctuated equilibrium, so this part of the language\biology analogy does not get put across well.
This is rather like punctuated equilibrium in biology.
Similarly, historicalinstitutionalist accounts that contrast periods of institutional stability with periods of change precipitated by exogenous shocks also conceive of institutions as equilibrium outcomes (punctuated equilibrium models of change).
Secondly, by focusing attention on periods of radical change precipitated by crisis, a model of punctuated equilibrium downplays the roles individuals play in affecting domestic structural change.
It is uncertain, however, whether ' quantum evolution ', and punctuated equilibrium in the transition zone are important.
Because not all innovations are successfully consolidated, entrepreneurship might produce something that resembles punctuated equilibrium, but one that is endogenously driven rather than externally induced.
