A quantitative study of disruptive technology policy texts: An example of China’s artificial intelligence policy

Abstract

Abstract Purpose The transformative impact of disruptive technologies on the restructuring of the times has attracted widespread global attention. This study aims to analyze the characteristics and shortcomings of China’s artificial intelligence (AI) disruptive technology policy, and to put forward suggestions for optimizing China’s AI disruptive technology policy. Design/methodology/approach Develop a three-dimensional analytical framework for “policy tools-policy actors-policy themes” and apply policy tools, social network analysis, and LDA topic model to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the utilization of policy tools, cooperative relationships among policy actors, and the trends in policy theme settings within China’s innovative AI technology policy. Findings We find that the collaborative relationship among the policy actors of AI disruptive technology in China is insufficiently close. Marginal subjects exhibit low participation in the cooperation network and overly rely on central subjects, forming a “center-periphery” network structure. Policy tool usage is predominantly focused on supply and environmental types, with a severe inadequacy in demand-side policy tool utilization. Policy themes are diverse, encompassing topics such as “Intelligent Services” “Talent Cultivation” “Information Security” and “Technological Innovation”, which will remain focal points. Under the themes of “Intelligent Services” and “Intelligent Governance”, policy tool usage is relatively balanced, with close collaboration among policy entities. However, the theme of “AI Theoretical System” lacks a comprehensive understanding of tool usage and necessitates enhanced cooperation with other policy entities. Research limitations The data sources and experimental scope are subject to certain limitations, potentially introducing biases and imperfections into the research results, necessitating further validation and refinement. Practical implications The study introduces a three-dimensional analysis framework for disruptive technology policy texts, which is significant for formulating and enhancing disruptive technology policies. Originality/value This study utilizes text mining and content analysis techniques to quantitatively analyze disruptive technology policy texts. It systematically evaluates China’s AI policies quantitatively, focusing on policy tools, policy actors, policy themes. The study uncovers the characteristics and deficiencies of current AI policies, offering recommendations for formulating and enhancing disruptive technology policies.