ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the conceptual framework that guided the empirical research is specified. The chapter first identifies the research hypotheses and the variables of interest, then utilizes economic diffusion theory to provide a theoretical framework for the empirical analysis. As part of this task, the section explains and justifies the functional form of the diffusion model. Finally, the chapter describes the data necessary to carry out the research, operationalizes the critical variables, and identifies data sources.
