This book analyses a range of social contexts in which human decisions shape technology in the market economy. It comprises a critical review of both a select research literature and in-depth historical studies. Material is drawn from many social science disciplines to inform the reader of the reality of taking decisions on innovation. The chapters cover
- The social context for individual acts of creative insight - The development of the technology-market relationship - The management of R&D and technological standard - Technological competition - The role of institutions of finance in innovation - The reciprocal relationship between intellectual property law and technological innovation - The role of technological skills and regimes of technological education in innovation - An introduction to the role of the state in maintaining the innovative capacity of the private sector.
