Abstract for:

Path Dependence, Endogenous Innovation and Growth

Stephen  Redding,  May 1999
Paper No' CEPDP0424:

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This Paper is published under the following series: CEP Discussion Papers

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Abstract:

We consider a macroeconomic model of endogenous innovation and growth, in which technological progress is path dependent and technological lock-in may occur. These features of technological change are emphasised in the historical and microeconomic literatures, and are formalised here using a distinction between fundamental and secondary knowledge. Secondary knowledge spills over imperfectly across fundamental technologies, and the historical path of technological development is a central determinant of endogenous rates of technological change. Economic growth depends on the extent of secondary knowledge accumulation, and leapfrogging in cross-country levels of income per capita may occur.