ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to build a systematic theoretical framework for the whole research on the basis of an in-depth study of actor-network theory. A sociological approach emerging from studies on the sociology of science and technology, the theory contains diverse interpretations and is still in vigorous development. This chapter comprises an in-depth and relatively comprehensive introduction of the basic philosophy, the main ideas, and the relevant concepts of actor-network theory, which are selected, integrated, and tailored according to the translation case under study in this research. The ideas and concepts include (human and nonhuman) actor, long distance control, black box, ‘translation’, obligatory passage point, immutable mobile, inscription, and centre of calculation. These are proposed by the founding fathers of the theory, i.e. Bruno Latour, Michel Callon, and John Law, and developed by many following researchers in various fields of study. By providing a guide, actor-network theory shapes the entire study and regulates not only the main body of discussion and analysis, but also the selection of the translation project/case and collection of information.
