ABSTRACT
In this Special Issue, we explore the dynamics of global innovation networks (GINs), and their implications for development. In the neo-Shumpeterian and ‘new trade theory’ context, knowledge is seen as the main determinant of economic growth, competitiveness and employment (Lundvall and Borras, 1998; Archibugi and Lundvall, 2001). The relationship between skills and innovation has been widely investigated (Lall, 2001; teVelde, 2005; Fagerberg and Verspagen, 2007; Martin, 2008; Toner, 2011), and has generated theoretical frameworks such as that of ‘absorptive capacity’ (Cohen and Levinthal, 1990). The evidence in this body of literature suggests that there is a strong causal interaction between capability-building and the growth in demand for, and supply of, technical and organizational innovation. Taken together, this complex of skills, knowledge and innovation holds great potential benefit for development, particularly in the context of developing countries (Grossman and Helpman, 1991; teVelde, 2005; Lorentzen, 2009).
