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Innovation in an Aging Population

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  • Legge, Stefan

Abstract

What is the effect of population aging on the rate of innovation? In this paper, I examine a new channel and argue that demographic shifts affect the demand for innovative goods. In an overlapping-generations model, it is assumed that individuals must spend time on learning how to use new technology. This creates age-dependent demand structures because older individuals have limited time windows for investments to pay off. The result is that in an aging population a larger fraction of the population does not invest in acquiring new skills. The amount of R&D is reduced as demand for innovative goods falls. Using data from all OECD countries for the period 1978-2010, I find support for these theoretical predictions. Those countries that faced the largest demographic shifts experienced the sharpest growth reduction in patent applications.

Suggested Citation

  • Legge, Stefan, 2016. "Innovation in an Aging Population," VfS Annual Conference 2016 (Augsburg): Demographic Change 145590, Verein für Socialpolitik / German Economic Association.
    • Handle: RePEc:zbw:vfsc16:145590
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Walter Krämer, 2016. "Die demografische Zeitbombe: Ursachen und Folgen der Kinderlosigkeit [The upcoming demographic disaster]," AStA Wirtschafts- und Sozialstatistisches Archiv, Springer;Deutsche Statistische Gesellschaft - German Statistical Society, vol. 10(4), pages 305-323, December.

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • J11 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Demographic Trends, Macroeconomic Effects, and Forecasts
    • J31 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Wage Level and Structure; Wage Differentials
    • O41 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Growth and Aggregate Productivity - - - One, Two, and Multisector Growth Models

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