Technology and productivity in historical perspective: Introduction (original) (raw)

The discussion surrounding the relationship between technology and productivity in historical context highlights differing perspectives, particularly between neoclassical and evolutionary economics. Overall, both schools of thought acknowledge the gradual coexistence of competing technologies and the need for further refinement before widespread adoption occurs. The volume presents contributions that examine key innovations in industries such as iron and manufacturing, demonstrating how local circumstances, consumer demand, and institutional settings influence the diffusion of innovation and productivity growth in European historical economic research.