The distinction between macro- and microinventions is at the core of recent debates on the Industrial Revolution. Yet, the empirical testing of this notion has remained elusive. We address this issue by introducing a new quality indicator for all patents granted in England in the period...

In this chapter we discuss the role of country's given conditions and endowment structures according to two theoretical perspectives. While "pure" theories of trade have mainly seen specialization according to one's comparative advantages as the key route to development, we outline a "heretic"...

In this chapter we discuss the role of natural resources and endowment structures on structural change. Departing from theories of trade that stress specialization according to one's comparative advantages as the key route to development, we articulate an alternative point of view on the role of...