Over-specialization in technology

In the 1970s and 1980s industrialized countries became more specialized in technology but less specialized in science. This is due to the proprietary nature of much technology. Because technological specialities differ between countries, countries are becoming more different technologically. Specialized machinery and equipment, transport, chemicals and computers are becoming concentrated in fewer countries.

1. Increased technological specialization appears to be good for countries. More specialization is linked to more rapid growth in number of patents and in industrial production.

1. Over-specialization

1. Restrictive business practices in relation to patents and trademarks
2. Maldistribution of science and technology
3. Erosion of quality of scientific research
4. Copyright barriers to transfer of knowledge

1. Restrictions on technology research and development
2. Imbalanced research activity

1. Lack of specialized technology

1. Super-power monopoly of advanced nuclear warfare technology
2. Cultural blindness in the application of research results

1. Specializing in technology
2. Enhancing scientific and technological research

1. Overspecialization