Cross-Country Technology Diffusion: The Case of Computers

Francesco Caselli and Wilbur Coleman

No 8130, NBER Working Papers from National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc

Abstract: We use data on imports of computer equipment for a large sample of countries between 1 970 and 1990 to investigate the determinants of computer-technology adoption. We find strong evidence that computer adoption is associated with higher levels of human capital and with manufacturing trade openness vis-a-vis the OECD. We also find evidence that computer adoption is enhanced by high investment rates, good property rights protection, and a small share of agriculture in GDP. Finally, there is some evidence that adoption is reduced by a large share of government in GDP, and increased by a large share of manufacturing. After controlling for the above-mentioned variables, we do not find an independent role for the English- (or European-) language skills of the population.

JEL-codes: E1 O3 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2001-02
Note: ITI PR
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (313)

Published as Francesco Caselli & Wilbur John Coleman II, 2001. "Cross-Country Technology Diffusion: The Case of Computers," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 91(2), pages 328-335, May.

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Journal Article: Cross-Country Technology Diffusion: The Case of Computers (2001)
Working Paper: Cross-Country Technology Diffusion: The Case of Computers (2001)
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