Economics of Innovation: Detailed Reading List

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2021-06-28 10:30:05

This semester I’m teaching a new class on the economics of innovation targeted to interested undergraduates from a wide range of backgrounds (the only prerequisite is Econ 101) and I thought others might find the reading list interesting. The readings are usually anchored to recent research in the economics of innovation, but to make the course accessible to people without degrees in economics I’ve tried to find and create accessible overviews of the research. So I hope this is useful for anyone interested in the topic, regardless of their background.

Caveat: these readings are selected to illustrate a big concept in the economics of innovation and to lead to a good discussion. They aren’t necessarily the “best” or “most convincing” paper on the topic and of course this list is far from exhaustive. Needless to say, I don’t necessarily endorse all the arguments made either.

Lessons from the EA economic miracle. I haven’t read much about industrial policy, but my baseline view is that it may have worked in the past, without implying that it can work now, less likely so in developed countries. Deserves more examination. Followup from the author RCT in Mexico adds to the evidence that management practices matter, and that management consultants can help.