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Path dependence and regional lock-in: an analysis using patent self-citations

Author

Listed:
  • Beatriz P Almeida

    (Federal University of Juiz de Fora)

  • Eduardo Gonçalves

    (Federal University of Juiz de Fora)

  • Raquel Coelho Reis

    (Federal University of Juiz de Fora)

Abstract

Patent citation data has been used to track the flow of knowledge between firms and regions. However, patent self-citations are mostly excluded from studies because they do not represent knowledge spillovers. This paper proposes the use of self-citations as indicators of path-dependence and lock-in since they reveal the regional accumulation of knowledge in certain technological areas. The results indicate that regions which have more self-citations may be in a positive or negative lock-in process. Self-citations may measure a natural path dependent trajectory, which is the case of the dynamic and innovative regions but they may also indicate a myopic process of old industrial regions.

Suggested Citation

  • Beatriz P Almeida & Eduardo Gonçalves & Raquel Coelho Reis, 2019. "Path dependence and regional lock-in: an analysis using patent self-citations," Economics Bulletin, AccessEcon, vol. 39(4), pages 2865-2874.
    • Handle: RePEc:ebl:ecbull:eb-19-00347
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    path dependence; lock-in; patent self-citations; regional inventions;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • O1 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development
    • R1 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics

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