The new knowledge economy in Europe: A strategy for international competitiveness and social cohesion

Book abstract:

'Knowledge is power' - an overworked cliché, a political sound bite or a simple acknowledgement of the importance knowledge has played in the development of humanity for centuries where we have seen knowledge move out from the secular confines of the religious communities into the secular studies in sciences and manufacture and latterly through the Internet into the homes and workplaces of the masses at a speed never before seen or imagined. This latter mentioned phenomenon is at the core of this work which addresses the opportunities and challenges facing Europe as it seeks to speed up the transition towards a knowledge based economy with more jobs and more social cohesion.

Contributions range over a wide range of topics including:

- The potential for growth of a knowledge based economy.
- New challenges for the welfare state
- Emerging trends in employment
- The role of international bench marking as a policy learning tool.
- The construction of European identity.
- The building of multilevel governance required to undertake reforms.

The book will interest academics, managers, public administrators and professional organisations involved in the studies of Europe or innovation.

Mario João Rodrigues is a Professor at the University of Lisbon (ISCTE) and a Special Advisor to the Prime Minister of Portugal.