Economics of Technological Change

Technological change in its many facets is central to an understanding of economic growth; yet, it was not always recognised as such. This module aims to study this key variable at the heart of the dynamics of industrial systems. The course will include theoretical as well as applied aspects, such as the determinants and consequences of technological innovation, its diffusion in the economic system, innovation strategies, the structure and dynamics of high technology industries, the role of institutions and national systems of innovation, and the importance of technological change for developing countries. The perspectives of both neoclassical and evolutionary economics will be studied.

Upon completion of the course, students should have a thorough understanding of the relationship between technological change and the dynamics and evolution of industries, firms' performance and growth and countries' competitive advantages.

Module presenter: Rachel Jafta

Course outline

Please note that this module is not presented every year, but in alternate years. The module was presented in 2021 and will be presented again in 2023. 

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BER Weekly

6 Jun 2025 SA GDP barely expands in Q1, while BCI and PMI suggest that Q2 remained weak
It was a busy week for local data releases, much of which painted a bleak picture of SA’s economy. Not only was first-quarter GDP growth dismal, but 2024 growth was also revised lower to just 0.5%. , The RMB/BER Business Confidence Index (BCI) showed sentiment remained shaky in the second quarter...

Read the full issue
 

BER Weekly

6 Jun 2025 SA GDP barely expands in Q1, while BCI and PMI suggest that Q2 remained weak
It was a busy week for local data releases, much of which painted a bleak picture of SA’s economy. Not only was first-quarter GDP growth dismal, but 2024 growth was also revised lower to just 0.5%. , The RMB/BER Business Confidence Index (BCI) showed sentiment remained shaky in the second quarter...

Read the full issue