This marvelous book offers a deep understanding of the (very different) ways in which
innovation works in Switzerland Sweden Austria and Taiwan. The four countries examined have
institutions and policies that spread the benefits of their innovative sectors widely across
their populations unlike most other successful innovators they also produce decent societies.
Distinguished from the many books on innovation I've read in recent years Neil Lee's work
presents a thought-provoking set of ideas and is sure to have a great impact--the samizdat
version already has.--David Soskice coauthor of Democracy and Prosperity: Reinventing
Capitalism through a Turbulent Century In this exquisitely researched book Lee offers hope:
hope in the ability to foster innovation that promotes widely shared prosperity for all.
Looking at the cases of four equitable innovators--Switzerland Austria Taiwan and
Sweden--the book offers lessons that should be well heeded by policymakers worldwide.--Dan
Breznitz author of Innovation in Real Places: Strategies for Prosperity in an Unforgiving
World Policymakers too often grasp at buzzwords and on-trend ideas. We can do better and this
book is a crucial tool in the job of improving economic policy. Growth and innovation in our
economy must have as their central goal the improvement of people's living standards. Lee's
analysis is a vital explanation of new evidence on how that can happen. All who care about
improving public economics should read it.--Alison McGovern MP Shadow Minister for Employment
A book for policymakers practitioners and anyone tasked with pursuing innovation-inspired
development strategies. Combining innovation-driven growth with mechanisms by which this growth
is distributed among more people Lee brings academic work closer to those who can actually do
something to change practices in the real world.--Josephine Rekers Senior Lecturer of Human
Geography Lund University A wonderful read. Lee shows the fundamental importance of linking
innovation and equality.--Teis Hansen Professor of Innovation and Entrepreneurship University
of Copenhagen
