disruptionism

Disruptionism is a term used to describe a worldview or strategic doctrine that treats disruptive change as a primary engine of social and economic progress. Proponents argue that deliberate disruption—particularly in markets, organizations, and technologies—can lower barriers to entry, spur innovation, accelerate productivity, and erode entrenched incumbents that resist change. Critics contend that disruption can impose significant social and economic costs, including worker displacement and short-term volatility, if not guided by safeguards.

The term draws on the concept of disruptive innovation and has appeared in business strategy and policy discussions since the early 2000s. It is not widely codified as a formal academic school, but is used in both laudatory and critical contexts to describe a policy or corporate posture that prioritizes rapid upheaval and experimentation.

Core tenets commonly attributed to disruptionism include prioritizing market dynamism over status quo protection, supporting new entrants and platforms, favoring experimentation and minimal regulatory friction, and judging progress by growth and the rate of change rather than by traditional stability metrics. Critics argue that such a stance can neglect social costs, undervalue workers' transitions, and increase systemic risk without accompanying protections.

In policy debates, disruptionism is associated with arguments for deregulatory measures, competition-focused antitrust enforcement, and policies that lower barriers for startups. In practice, it has been linked to tech-sector dynamics, the rise of platform-based business models, and ongoing discussions about social safety nets and retraining programs.

Related concepts include disruptive innovation, platform economy, and innovation policy.