Liikennehistorian tutkimus Suomessa – näkökohtia menneestä ja tulevasta

Authors

• Marko Nenonen

Abstract

Transport History in Finland: Perspectives on the past and futureThe writer analyses the main themes of transportation history in Finland. The key theme is that of transport systems, which are analysed through the related concepts of infrastructure, path dependence, and systems theory. Infrastructure is defined as a complex technological and social system with four special features: (1) through it nature as well as the social and cultural environment are controlled as a material and politico-cultural resource; (2) it is developed by some central power; (3) it has geographical dimensions in a way that (4) allow the central power to advance its interests beyond its immediate vicinity. Infrastructure is a hierarchical system, but on the other hand its hierarchy is dispersed by its network like nature. Its network-related properties can be more important than hierarchical properties. The main body of the literature on transport history in Finland is works by the specialist and researchers working outside the academic institutions. Since the late 20th century, the subject has gotten more recognition also in the academic world.