Elinor Ostrom: Case Studies, Academic Careers, and a Nobel Prize

Abstract

In this paper, I examine the strategies by which Elinor Ostrom carved out a successful career as a woman in the social sciences with a particular emphasis on her engagement with the discipline of economics. The methodology is guided by Ostrom’s work with small-N case studies. Layers of analysis include (i) individual behavioral choices, (ii) the micro (community) situation, and (iii) the larger socio-ecological context. Ostrom’s career choices and publishing patterns are examined as are the structure and functioning of the Ostrom Workshop and Ostrom’s engagement with the field of economics. By considering each level, we can see how Ostrom successfully leveraged collaboration, while still differentiating and protecting her work from appropriation. Considered in combination with sociological and institutional features that determine Nobel prizes, it becomes much less surprising that Ostrom’s name would sift to the top of consideration.