The South African national system of innovation: from constructed crisis to constructed advantage?

Author: Kahn, Michael

Source: Science and Public Policy, Volume 33, Number 2, 1 March 2006 , pp. 125-136(12)

Publisher: Beech Tree Publishing

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Abstract:

The paper examines how the South African national system of innovation (NSI) has evolved through the transition from apartheid to democracy. To provide structure to this analysis Kim's 1998 concept of the `constructed crisis' in firms is applied at the level of the state. This schema is found to be useful given the complex forces shaping the young state. The origins of the NSI are examined along with emerging science and technology policy and data from the national surveys of research and development (R&D) and other sources. This allows for examination of trends over time, R&D organisational concentration and focus areas. As appropriate we suggest interpretations consistent with the constructed crisis model. While the NSI remained robust in the transition to democracy the human resources nexus jeopardises more rapid growth and development.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.3152/147154306781779109

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