What does technological momentum refer to?

Technological momentum describes a system's resistance to change over time. This concept, introduced by historian Thomas P. Hughes, suggests that once technology is established within a society or a system, it tends to adopt a trajectory that makes it increasingly difficult to alter or abandon. As technologies become integrated into societal practices, they gain a sort of "inertia," which results in the entrenchment of existing systems, standards, and behaviors. This resistance can arise from various factors such as economic interests, social norms, and institutional frameworks that reinforce the status quo.

As a result, while technologies may initially be adaptable and subject to change, over time, they develop a momentum that leads to stability and resistance against significant modification. This concept highlights the challenges faced when attempting to innovate or pivot from established technological paths, illustrating that the evolution of technology is not solely hinged on its capabilities or advancements but also on social and organizational factors that create a barrier to change.