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Long-Term Economic Growth and the History of Technology

In: Handbook of Economic Growth

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  • Mokyr, Joel

Abstract

Modern economic growth started in the West in the early nineteenth century. This survey discusses the precise connection between the Industrial Revolution and the beginnings of growth, and connects it to the intellectual and economic factors underlying the growth of useful knowledge. The connections between science, technology and human capital are re-examined, and the role of the eighteenth century Enlightenment in bringing about modern growth is highlighted. Specifically, the paper argues that the Enlightenment changed the agenda of scientific research and deepened the connections between theory and practice.

Suggested Citation

  • Mokyr, Joel, 2005. "Long-Term Economic Growth and the History of Technology," Handbook of Economic Growth, in: Philippe Aghion & Steven Durlauf (ed.), Handbook of Economic Growth, edition 1, volume 1, chapter 17, pages 1113-1180, Elsevier.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:grochp:1-17
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    JEL classification:

    • O0 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - General

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