ABSTRACT
The chapters that make up this section reflect a most interesting stage of scientific inquiry. They all draw upon findings and models from a line of research that was initiated about 20 years ago. Yet, some of them question basic notions of this research tradition; and almost all are critical of some of the assumptions that used to be regarded as conventional wisdom during these two decades. This tendency is apparent throughout this section, albeit in various degrees and with respect to different problems. Sure enough, much more can be found in each contribution than a critical attitude toward previous research. But the picture as whole – at least the picture as I interpret it – is one of a research field in transition rather than in a phase of consolidation.
