Evolutionary Economics Perspectives on the Regional—National—International Dimensions of Biotechnology Innovations

Abstract

This paper explores how and why relationships between firms, network linkages, and selection environments are related to geographical dimensions, within modern biotechnology at the overlap with pharmaceuticals. Theories from evolutionary economics and innovation studies are used to address questions related to the local–national–international dimensions of innovations. The concept of ‘environmental selection pressures’ is proposed, as one way to make sense of the differing patterns of firm formation, technological specialisation, and innovation. Preliminary evidence about developments in biotechnology-pharmaceuticals in Sweden and Australia is presented, to exemplify the conceptualisation and develop appreciative theorising. The paper concludes with implications for government policy as well as areas for future research.