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The Lever Of Riches - Technological Creativity And Economic Progress Autor: Joel Mokry Verlag: Oxford University Press Englisch 5.00 CHF ISBN: 978-0199677904 |
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Joel Mokyr's "The Lever of Riches: Technological Creativity and Economic Progress" (Oxford University Press) explores the relationship between technological innovation and economic growth. Mokyr argues that sustained economic progress isn't simply a matter of accumulating capital or resources, but fundamentally depends on a society's ability to generate and adopt new technologies. The book delves into the history of technological innovation, focusing on the unique conditions that fostered the "Industrial Revolution" and subsequent technological advancements. Mokyr emphasizes the role of "Galileo's tools" - a combination of scientific knowledge, engineering skills, and entrepreneurial spirit - in driving progress. He argues that a specific cultural and institutional environment, characterized by open inquiry, a willingness to experiment, and a system that rewards innovation, is crucial. He distinguishes between various types of technological change, emphasizing the importance of "general purpose technologies" (GPTs) - innovations like the steam engine or the computer - that have transformative effects across multiple sectors. The book also analyzes the obstacles to technological advancement, such as resistance to change, institutional rigidities, and the inherent uncertainties involved in innovation. In essence, "The Lever of Riches" offers a nuanced and historically informed perspective on how technological creativity functions as a fundamental driver of economic progress, highlighting the complex interplay of culture, institutions, and individual ingenuity. It's a significant contribution to the understanding of economic history and the forces shaping modern economies. |
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