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

18 Jul 2025 Encouraging data, but messy politics while US tariff deadline looms
The big global data prints of the week came on Tuesday, with better-than-expected Chinese GDP growth for Q2 and US core CPI coming in lower than expected, but still (finally) reflecting some signs of tariffs being passed on to consumers. Locally, the uptick in mining production and retail sales was positive for Q2 GDP dynamics. In addition to the data,...

Read the full issue
 

BER Weekly

18 Jul 2025 Encouraging data, but messy politics while US tariff deadline looms
The big global data prints of the week came on Tuesday, with better-than-expected Chinese GDP growth for Q2 and US core CPI coming in lower than expected, but still (finally) reflecting some signs of tariffs being passed on to consumers. Locally, the uptick in mining production and retail sales was positive for Q2 GDP dynamics. In addition to the data,...

Read the full issue