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Migration and innovation: Does cultural diversity matter for regional R&D activity?

Year: 2010

Type: article

Abstract: Recent theoretical research deals with economic costs and benefits of cultural diversity related to immigration.However, empirical evidence regarding the impact of cultural diversity on economic performance is still scarce.We analyse the effect of cultural diversity of the labour force on patent applications for a cross-section of German regions.The results suggest that differences in knowledge and capabilities of workers from diverse cultural backgrounds enhance performance of regional R&D sectors.As regards innovation, the benefits of diversity seem to outweigh the costs caused, for example, by communication barriers.

Source: Papers of the Regional Science Association

DOI: 10.1111/j.1435-5957.2009.00271.x

Author: Annekatrin Niebuhr

Institution: Institut für Arbeitsmarkt und Berufsforschung

Language: English

Topic: Culture, Economy, and Development Studies

Subfield: Demography

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,740