This course will investigate the economic and political dynamics of technological innovation and the role of strategies, policies, regulations, and other institutions in its global diffusion. We also explore why some countries are better at innovation than others.

The course is divided into four modules:

PART I              Defining and Understanding Science, Technology, and Innovation                                                    

PART 2             Governing Technological Innovation & STI Policy

PART 3             Creating Regulatory and Technology Standards

PART 4:            Special Issues

We ask:  What do we mean by science and technology? Why do countries adopt similar or different science, technology, and innovation strategies, regulations, and standards in support of economic growth? What are the different paths that technological innovation and diffusion take, and how do they impact productivity and competitiveness? Who governs these processes and how? Ultimately, these questions help us understand the role of government, markets, and society in shaping global technological and economic change. While the subject is vast, the course's scope helps keep it manageable. It draws on the scholarly and popular literature, as well as industry examples. The course also compares US technology innovation strategies with those of Europe, Asia, and selected developing countries.

The course is open to advanced undergraduates and graduate students. Prior work in political science or economics is strongly recommended. 

I have tried to keep your weekly readings manageable. The course delves more deeply into economic, political, and technological elements. However, you are given the flexibility to choose research topics of particular interest to you.  

Please keep apprised of current issues regarding the economic and political dynamics of technological innovation by reading a good daily or weekly publication such as The Wall Street Journal, The Financial Times, The New York Times, and/or The Economist. I will also be posting current event articles on Canvas from time to time.  These will help link some of the more conceptual themes in the course with real-world events.