Technological Convergence in Europe: What Are the Main Issues?

This paper puts forward a basic model of technological catching up. This model represents an attempt to systematise the most relevant factors that, from a perspective of less-favoured regions in Europe, affect the prospects for technological catching up. This process is conceptualised as an interaction between three major factors: the endogenous capabilities accumulated in the less advanced regions; the possibilities these regions have to free ride the knowledge spilling over from the more advanced regions; and, finally, the local conditions that may improve or hinder the development of capabilities and the absorption of externally-produced knowledge.