Performance of the Chilean Science, Technology, Knowledge and Innovation System: A Comparative Analysis of Development Pathways

Abstract

A vast academic literature points out the importance of innovation in economic growth, which has prompted many countries to steadily increase their innovative effort, especially public spending for R&D, highlighting the need for agents (public and private) to spend the resources available for R&D efficiently. This article analyses in particular the performance of the Chilean R&D system in terms of the result of its innovative effort, comparing it with other systems to analyse in depth the characteristics and mechanisms of the strategies and/or public policies in science and technology that are considered most relevant as guidelines for the Chilean case. From a systemic approach to innovation and by applying various quantitative techniques, we conclude that Chile has a national innovation system that is significantly less developed than other OECD countries. This lag is multidimensional and manifests itself in several variables, including private financing of R&D, publications per capita, patents, and productivity.