Innovation through subtraction : contribution to a sociology of detachment.

To round out the picture of innovation processes documented in terms of association by sociology of translation (actor-network theory) studies, this article analyzes innovation processes in terms of dissociation and detachment mechanisms, examining innovation through subtraction; that is, innovation founded on reducing a practice or ceasing to use - subtracting, detaching - a given artefact. Specifically, it focuses on the shift to farming techniques that have eliminated plowing, bringing to light four major mechanisms constitutive of dissociation : centrifugal association; making entities and associations visible; making other entities and associations invisible; bringing together or associating new entities. The study helps refine our understanding of the detachment processes at work in most innovation, shedding light in this particular case on transfers between public research institutes, industrial companies and citizens all seeking to develop new farm production models.