Beyond the Technology Race: Analysis of Technology Policy in Seven Industrial Countries - Tapa dura

Reseña del editor

During the 1980s governments in all industrial countries have tightened their grip on technological development. This book illustrates the technology race between seven industrial countries in the field of information technology, biotechnology and new materials. However, the analysis of a government's role in technological development goes beyond the simple comparison of financial efforts and policy measures. The policies of seven countries are analysed in their specific national context and much attention is paid to the differences in industrial structure, the different social and institutional settings, and national traditions in government intervention. In order to gain insight into the diffusion of new technologies and the shifts in international competitive relations it is necessary to focus on the social base for technological change among the industrial countries. In this context there is fundamental work to do for economists, political scientists, sociologists, policy makers, technical engineers, consultants, managers in strategic planning and human resources, and so on.