This paper, in contrast, suggests that the notion of being exceptional – or as a noun: exceptionalism – does also exist within the United States. The particular example is the state of California in the western part. The paper aims at illustrating some factors which have motivated scholars to use the term in an extended, yet more specific manner. First, it will elaborate on Silicon Valley and its features by taking into account some differences to East Coast industry. Second, it introduces the Californian geography and the strong efforts for environmental protection. Third, it provides a section on some cultural and societal features, including the Californian Ideology. Finally, the findings are summarized and put into concluding remarks that also give an outlook on further developments.
'American exceptionalism is the recurring character in the nation's narrative.' This sentence by business executive and former journalist Ron Fournier describes a notion that is familiar to those studying the history of the United States. Here, America is often symbolically portrayed as a country that guarantees freedom, opportunity, rights and prosperity. A selection of characteristics distinguishes it from other countries in the world, whether it is on the basis of moral superiority or only because certain elements do exist and others do not. English Puritans added a religious meaning to the term, as the phrases 'The New Israel' and 'God’s Chosen People', the settlers, are mentioned. Further, the self-sustaining, hard-working yeoman farmer is an ideal figure that embodies the libertarian spirit of the nation. However, this definition looks at America in its entirety, and the scope is rather international as it is compared to other nations.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- 1. Introduction
- 2. 'Designed in California' - Silicon Valley and the influence of technology
- 3. Geography and Environment
- 4. Society and Culture
- 5. Conclusion
- 6. References
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This paper examines the concept of "California exceptionalism" by focusing on the state's unique characteristics, particularly within the context of the United States. The main objective is to illustrate factors that have led scholars to apply this term to California in a specific way, contrasting it with other regions.
- Silicon Valley's distinctive developmental capacity compared to East Coast industry.
- California's geography and its commitment to environmental protection.
- Cultural and societal features of California, including the "Californian Ideology".
- The role of venture capital and entrepreneurial culture in shaping Silicon Valley.
- Comparison of Silicon Valley's approach to challenges with other regions.
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
1. Introduction: This introductory chapter establishes the concept of "American exceptionalism" and broadens the scope to encompass "California exceptionalism." It introduces the paper's aim: to explore specific factors contributing to California's unique character, focusing on Silicon Valley, geography, and culture, and ultimately summarizing its distinct features.
2. 'Designed in California' – Silicon Valley and the influence of technology: This chapter contrasts Silicon Valley's development with that of Route 128 in Massachusetts. It highlights AnnaLee Saxenian's work on regional advantages, emphasizing Silicon Valley's entrepreneurial culture, characterized by its collaborative networks, adaptability, and venture capital dominance. The chapter contrasts this with the more conservative and less collaborative approach of Route 128, explaining the westward shift of technology companies and the importance of factors like proximity, transparency, and information velocity in Silicon Valley's success. The analysis draws heavily on Saxenian's observations regarding the differing approaches to challenges and the impact on job creation and growth.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
California exceptionalism, Silicon Valley, Route 128, regional advantage, entrepreneurial culture, venture capital, technology, geography, environment, society, culture, Californian Ideology, innovation, adaptability, collaboration.
California Exceptionalsim: A Comprehensive Language Preview - FAQ
What is the overall purpose of this document?
This document provides a comprehensive preview of a paper examining "California exceptionalism." It includes a table of contents, objectives and key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords. The preview aims to give the reader a clear understanding of the paper's scope and content.
What are the main topics covered in the paper?
The paper focuses on the unique characteristics of California, particularly in comparison to other regions of the United States. Key themes include the development of Silicon Valley, California's geography and environmental commitment, its societal and cultural features (including the "Californian Ideology"), and the role of venture capital and entrepreneurial culture in shaping Silicon Valley's success.
How does the paper define "California exceptionalism"?
The paper explores the concept of "California exceptionalism" by examining specific factors contributing to California's unique character. It contrasts California's development with other regions, particularly focusing on its technological innovation and cultural aspects.
What is the significance of Silicon Valley in the paper?
Silicon Valley serves as a central case study, comparing its development to that of Route 128 in Massachusetts. The paper analyzes the distinct entrepreneurial culture of Silicon Valley, highlighting its collaborative networks, adaptability, and dominance of venture capital, and contrasting this with the more conservative approach of Route 128.
What other factors besides Silicon Valley are considered in the paper?
Beyond Silicon Valley, the paper explores California's geography and its commitment to environmental protection, and its unique cultural and societal features, including the concept of the "Californian Ideology."
What are the key differences between Silicon Valley and Route 128 highlighted in the paper?
The paper contrasts Silicon Valley's collaborative, adaptable, and venture capital-driven entrepreneurial culture with Route 128's more conservative and less collaborative approach. This comparison explains the westward shift of technology companies and highlights the importance of factors like proximity, transparency, and information velocity in Silicon Valley's success.
What are the key concepts and terms used throughout the paper?
Key terms include "California exceptionalism," "Silicon Valley," "Route 128," "regional advantage," "entrepreneurial culture," "venture capital," "technology," "geography," "environment," "society," "culture," "Californian Ideology," "innovation," "adaptability," and "collaboration."
What is the structure of the paper?
The paper is structured with an introduction, chapters dedicated to Silicon Valley and its technological influence, geography and environment, society and culture, a conclusion, and a references section.
What is the intended audience for this paper?
While not explicitly stated, the academic nature of the preview suggests the intended audience is likely academics and researchers interested in California's unique development, particularly within the context of American exceptionalism and technological innovation.
Where can I find the complete paper?
The provided preview does not contain information on where to find the complete paper. Further information would be needed to locate the full text.
- Quote paper
- Leo Kempe (Author), 2020, California Exceptionalism. Why the Golden State is different, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1437081
