Cross-Country Technology Diffusion: The Case of Computers

26 Pages Posted: 18 Feb 2001 Last revised: 19 Sep 2022

See all articles by Francesco Caselli

Francesco Caselli

London School of Economics & Political Science (LSE) - Department of Economics; Centre for Economic Policy Research (CEPR); National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER)

Wilbur John Coleman

Duke University, Fuqua School of Business-Economics Group

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Date Written: February 2001

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.

Suggested Citation

Caselli, Francesco and Coleman, Wilbur John, Cross-Country Technology Diffusion: The Case of Computers (February 2001). NBER Working Paper No. w8130, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=260543

Francesco Caselli (Contact Author)

London School of Economics & Political Science (LSE) - Department of Economics ( email )

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Centre for Economic Policy Research (CEPR)

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National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER)

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Wilbur John Coleman

Duke University, Fuqua School of Business-Economics Group ( email )

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