Abstract.
In this paper we focus on the technological knowledge of a region and the pattern of cooperative behavior of the innovative actors within that region as a means of transferring this knowledge. In particular, we are concerned with the relationship between the kind and level of knowledge and/or the degree of specialization within a region, the propensity to cooperate and the kind of cooperation. Based on a theoretical discussion of research cooperation we derive appropriate hypotheses and provide an econometric analysis based on data of co-patenting. We find that technologically moderately specialized regions show the highest number of research cooperations, and the higher a regions specialization, the more cooperations take place with partners inside that region.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Corresponding author
Additional information
JEL Classification:
L29, O31, R12
We thank Jens J. Krüger, Michel Quéré, Cees van Beers, Henry Overman and participants of the ZEW Summer Workshop on Innovation, Location and European Integration in Mannheim as well as two anonymous referees for their helpful comments and suggestions.
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Cantner, U., Graf, H. Cooperation and specialization in German technology regions. J. Evol. Econ. 14, 543–562 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00191-004-0229-5
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00191-004-0229-5