Session2 Flashcards
What is the framework discussed in the session?
Long waves of economic development
add context
What are the key data sources for understanding technology and innovation?
- Publications
- Patents
- R&D
- Surveys
What is the interplay between technical and organizational change?
- Technical change is faster
- Organizational change is slower
- Both are needed for growth
What is Industry 4.0?
Refers to the era of digitalization, AI, and connected technologies.
What are the five technological trajectories discussed?
- Time-saving innovation
- Flexible energy (Steam)
- Large-scale production (Steel, chemicals)
- Cheap mobility (Engines)
- Computational power (Semiconductors, AI)
What is the significance of the dominant design in the industry life cycle?
It emerges after trial and error, leading to process improvements and scale-driven efficiency.
Where is AI positioned in its lifecycle?
AI is in a period of exploration; no dominant design has emerged yet.
Why do private firms invest in R&D?
- Scientific knowledge improves inventions
- Attracts talent with ‘taste for science’
- Builds reputation
- Enhances absorptive capacity
What is happening to investments in scientific research by firms?
Declining, especially in firms further from the technology frontier.
What is the trend for AI patents vs publications?
Top AI firms often produce more scientific papers than patents, suggesting a shift in specialization.
What is Switzerland’s role in global innovation?
Leads in R&D expenditure (3.3% of GDP) and patents per capita.
What is absorptive capacity?
Firms’ ability to understand external knowledge requires internal R&D capabilities.
How does public science affect corporate R&D?
Firms near the technology frontier continue investing; non-frontier firms rely more on universities/startups.
