Tacit Knowledge Transfer via Interlocking Directorates: A Comparison of Canada and the United States

Authors

Sean B. O'Hagan, Nipissing University
Milford B. Green, University of Western Ontario

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-2002

Volume

84

Issue

1

Journal

Geografiska Annaler: Series B, Human Geography

First Page

49

Last Page

63

URL with Digital Object Identifier

http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.0435-3684.2002.00113.x

Abstract

This paper explores geography as a contributing factor to knowledge transfer among Canadian and American firms. We argue that the knowledge networks of the two countries are moving in opposite directions. Canada's network is converging into fewer cities while the American network encompasses a greater number of cities. When the knowledge networks of Canada and the United States are explored, national and local boundaries are found to impede the movement of corporate knowledge. Prior to our discussion on its spatiality, the concept of knowledge is introduced and its relation to individuals and firms of the Canadian and American corporate network is examined.