Technological change and absorptive capacity: An evolutionary perspective of Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

This thesis takes an evolutionary theoretical perspective to analyse knowledge dynamics linked to the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) innovations. An introductory chapter presents the thesis’ overarching theoretical framework, research questions, main findings, contributions, policy implications, and limitations. This chapter is followed by three empirical papers that focus on distinct knowledge dynamics related to the creation of AI innovations. The papers provide a comprehensive overview of the technological development of AI, how this development was reflected in countries’ exploration of this technology, and how it affected the innovative activities of firms that introduced AI innovations. The combined findings from these papers, it is argued, allow a better understanding of how specific technologies and global technological development can impact firms’ ability to learn and innovate.