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The age pattern of human capital and regional productivity: A spatial econometric study on german regions

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  • Stephan Brunow
  • Georg Hirte

Abstract

We explore the impact of the age structure of human capital on average regional productivity by applying a spatial econometric analysis based on an augmented Lucas‐type production function. We also apply a new definition of regional human capital focusing on its availability. The estimates provide evidence that there are age specific human capital effects in Germany and that a temporary increase in regional productivity could occur during the demographic transition. Furthermore, it becomes clear that the availability‐based definition of human capital provides additional insight and so, could enrich future studies on regional human capital. Resumen Exploramos el impacto de la estructura de edades del capital humano sobre la productividad regional media mediante un análisis econométrico espacial basado en una función de producción tipo Lucas aumentada. Aplicamos también una nueva definición de capital humano regional poniendo énfasis en su disponibilidad. Las estimaciones aportan pruebas de que en Alemania existen efectos del capital humano específicos de la edad y que la productividad regional podría aumentar temporalmente durante la transición demográfica. Además, queda claro que la definición de capital humano basada en la disponibilidad aporta conocimientos adicionales y por lo tanto podría enriquecer en el futuro estudios sobre capital humano regional.

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  • Stephan Brunow & Georg Hirte, 2009. "The age pattern of human capital and regional productivity: A spatial econometric study on german regions," Papers in Regional Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 88(4), pages 799-823, November.
  • Handle: RePEc:bla:presci:v:88:y:2009:i:4:p:799-823
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1435-5957.2009.00228.x
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