Techno-Economic Paradigms and Technological Transitions

While there is no linear determinism in economic development, large-scale patterns have been identified in economic, industrial and technological dynamics. As suggested by Schumpeter, these patterns are associated with the occurrence of successive technological revolutions. This course provides a set of tools for understanding and analyzing technical change, from the minor and frequent incremental innovations constantly incorporated into products and services, to the major surges of transformation that change the techno-economic paradigm for the whole economy. The course discusses the nature, genesis and different stages of diffusion of techno-economic paradigms, their impact on socio-economic institutions and on the changing windows of opportunity for development.

NB! This course will take place in spring semester 2024/2025 which starts on 3rd of February and ends on 16th of June (you can find that information under Start date section). The real course start and end dates will be announced at the beginning of February at the latest.

After successfully passing the subject the student:

• is able to survey the relationships between science, technology and economic development from a historical perspective;
• demonstrates the main technological and economic developments from the first scientific and industrial revolutions to the present;
• evaluates the impacts of innovation processes and technological as well as socio-economic changes on individuals and enterprises;
• places current issues and debates about technology-economy relationships into a broader historical perspective;
• outlines the meaning of innovation systems’ framework and clustering, and indicates their applicability in policy-design;
• puts the developments in markets and organizations into the context of technology systems and changes;
• demonstrates basic knowledge and skills in solving project-based assignments.

Final assessment can consist of one test/assignment or several smaller assignments completed during the whole course. After declaring a course the student can re-sit the exam/assessment once. Assessment can be graded or non-graded. For specific information about the assessment process please get in touch with the contact person of this course. For specific information about grade transfer please contact your home university

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• Perez, C. (2002) Technological Revolutions and Financial Capital, The Dynamics of Bubbles and Golden Ages. Edward Elgar.

lectures, exercises