Evolution of patent citation networks

Can we use the framework of evolution to understand technological innovation? This question has been explored in the past using different approaches. Here, we propose that the convergence of computer science, evolutionary biology and statistical physics is a promising approach to study technological evolution. Using this novel framework, we show that the patterns of interactions between inventions show strong regularities shared by many physical, natural, and man-made systems. These patterns can be explained with a generic model of network growth that combines preferential attachment and ageing. The implications of these studies are discussed.