On priority development of knowledge economy

Abstract

A.G. Aganbegyan considers the knowledge economy as the main component of human capital. He analyzes certain areas of the knowledge economy (R&D, healthcare and education) by comparing relevant results demonstrated by Russian regions with similar indices reported for other countries. The article points out positive and negative aspects, e.g. high level and quality of education v. low efficiency of its application; lower cancer mortality rate and particularly child mortality rate v. high mortality from cardiovascular disease among working-age population, etc. Major causes of negative phenomena include insufficient funding of the public sector and inefficient administration. In order to remedy the situation, the author recommends the development of a new federal budget, transition to national economic planning and adjustment of national projects.