Path dependence, behavioral rules, and the role of entrepreneurship in economic change: The case of the automobile industry

This paper develops a complementary theory of path dependence based on rigidity resulting from the choice of management system within the firm. Rules-following behavior introduces rigidity which can lead to inefficient path dependence within a firm. Entrepreneurial alertness, in a crisis, can prevent lock-in from occurring since it leads people to alter perceptions and change behavior. An empirical look at the automobile industry explores the idea of rules-following behavior inducing path dependence development and the potential for change despite inefficient path dependent behavior.