This book discusses the latest theoretical advances in regional innovation research, presents empirical cases involving the development of regional innovation systems (RISs), and explores regional innovation policy approaches. Grounded in the extensive literature on RISs, it addresses...

Introduction -- The Foundations: Human Needs and Cultural Background -- Culture in Economic Thinking -- Cultural Background and Economic System -- The Effect of Cultural Background on Incentives, Growth and Distribution and Vice Versa -- Cultural Background and Rationality -- The Cultural...

"Democratic institutions ostensibly serve the common good. Yet democratically elected leaders face varied incentives. Politicians must balance the public's welfare with demands from interest groups that run counter to the common good. Nowhere is this balancing act more apparent than in the area...