Table 1 Reification of the proximity concept
Proximities | Distinct attributesa | Level of analysis |
|---|---|---|
Geographical | Location (pure physical distance) | Macro and meso (international/national/global/local) |
Institutional | Formal and informal rules & regulations imposed by specific administrative geographical territories, such as countries and regional entities, including cultural aspects | Macro (nation/region) |
Social | Embeddedness in knowledge fields, professional associations or social communities | Meso (networks) |
Organizational | Organizational objectives and organization-specific formal and informal rules & regulations (including aspects of organizational culture) | Meso (organizations) |
Cognitive | Knowledge areas of expertise and experience as well as reputational standing | Micro (individual) |
Personal | Personal character traits, behavioural patterns, and enjoyment of one another’s company | Micro (individual) |