Innovation, economic change, and technology policies

Technological progress significantly shapes economic growth, with today's living standards stemming from past scientific and technical advancements. However, unchecked technological development poses threats to well-being and survival, necessitating effective management of innovation to balance private desires with societal needs. Understanding the processes of technical change and their effects on economic and social dynamics is crucial, as is recognizing how individuals and governments can influence this progress. To address these issues, the Ministry for Research and Technology of the Federal Republic of Germany and the National Science Foundation of the United States convened a seminar on "Technological Innovation" in April 1976 in Bonn, Germany. This gathering brought together scholars, corporate leaders, and civil servants to discuss the implications of technological advancements. The papers presented at the seminar, specifically prepared for this event, are compiled in this volume to engage a broader audience. The aim is to stimulate dialogue among scholars, managers, union officials, and civil servants, all of whom are impacted by technical change and its ramifications on society and the economy.