Spatial relation between geo-climate zones and technological outputs to explain the evolution of technology

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to analyse the relationship between geo-climate zones of the globe and innovative outputs in order to detect favourable mechanisms that can foster high technological change. Empirical analysis shows that geographical areas with tepid latitudes have higher levels of innovative outputs than non-temperate latitudes. In effect, warm temperate climate has an appropriate natural environment for humans and societies that, by means of a long-run process of adaptation and learning, creates fruitful platforms of institutions, communications and energy systems. These platforms use efficiently human and physical capital to support inventions, innovations and their diffusion, and consequently the path of economic growth. The linkages are discussed to substantiate a theoretical framework, which explains the temperate climate as one of contributing factors for the source and evolution of new technology.