Scholars in science and technology studies have long been concerned with a variety of issues revolving around technological change, such as explaining the origins of technological innovation and arguing for or against technological determinism. This thesis reviews a number of theoretical models developed by historians, philosophers, sociologists, and other scholars to explain technological change. A case study of technological innovations in industnal forestry and timber harvesting practices provides a basis for a critique of these previously proposed models and for an argument for a new model. This model, an ecological model, suggests homeostatic pressures play a major role in the innovative processes within any technological system.

Master of Science