Research on the logical mechanism and path of digital new quality productivity enabling common prosperity

Precisely measuring the phased achievements of common prosperity and analyzing the spatial distribution characteristics and driving mechanisms of its development level are crucial for promoting high-quality economic development. Based on panel data from 30 provincial regions in China, this study employs the entropy weight TOPSIS method, kernel density estimation, and dynamic qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) to explore the linkage effects and path selection of digital new quality productivity elements on the balanced development of common prosperity. The research findings are as follows: (1) The level of common prosperity in our country has generally exhibited an upward trend, and the spatial distribution pattern characterized by “higher levels in the east and lower levels in the west” is clearly evident. (2) The multi-dimensional elements of digital new quality productivity work in concert to promote the development of common prosperity, forming three configuration pathways: the “digital intelligence foundation - talent traction type,” “digital intelligence industry-talent linkage type,” and “digital intelligence development - talent collaboration type.” (3) Considering the evolving trend of the path toward common prosperity, the process has progressed through three distinct stages: “digital intelligence foundation,” “digital intelligence industry,” and “digital intelligence development.” Spatially, this evolution exhibits both an “East-middle disparity” and an “East-West disparity.” This research contributes to a better understanding of the current state of common prosperity, enhances the level of digital new quality productivity, and offers valuable insights for implementing differentiated development strategies to accelerate the reduction of regional economic disparities.