The Silicon Valley paradox: A qualitative interview study on the social, cultural, and ideological foundations of a global innovation center

Quandt, Thorsten; Klapproth, Johanna

Abstract

Silicon Valley is both object of intense fascination and stark criticism. Academic observers have described it as a unique amalgamation of hippie culture, libertarian thinking, wild experimentation, but also scientific rigor, high-tech pre- cision, and turbo-capitalism – a seemingly improbable, even paradoxical combina- tion. Nevertheless, Silicon Valley continues to be an economic powerhouse and a global innovation hub. The current study explores its socio-cultural and ideological foundations through the lens of an insider perspective to find explanations for its stability and sustained success in light of conflicting components. Based on 15 inter- views with Silicon Valley experts from start-ups, tech giants, and academic institu- tions, the study identifies several paradoxes on the level of ideology and environ- ment, structure(s), and actors. These can be grouped into a binary, oppositional view, indeed describing the Silicon Valley paradox. However, alternative explana- tions are given, including the conceptualization as a non-dualist phenomenon.