Monads and The Metaphysics of Innovation Processes

In Leibnitz’s view, the universe is made up of an infinite number of simple substances/elements renowned as monads. Each monad is a centre of force; it is a simple (it has no parts), unique (it is qualitatively unlike every other), indestructible (it is subject to only creation and annihilation), and dynamic (they change over time) entity. Each monad has no true causal relation with other monads, but they all are perfectly synchronized with each other in a pre-established harmony. This is Leibniz’s system of metaphysics. In the present chapter, the concepts of monads and metaphysics have been referred and rearranged into innovation studies. Starting from the idea that innovation processes depend on explicit elements (specific factors) that can be simple, unique, indestructible and dynamic, the present chapter aims to test if three innovation factors can be deemed as monads and if it they can be properly considered when talking about metaphysics of innovation processes. Achieved results (based on stochastic frontier analyses—SFA) open up stimulating reflections about innovation processes.