Publisher's Synopsis
The first recorded government inquiry into shortages of scientists and engineers in the UK took place in 1852. Since then, the issue has recurred time and time again. A recent example was the Finniston Report, 1980. Much of this debate generated considerable heat but little light because of a lack of detailed statistical evidence about the contributions made by professional scientists and engineers (PSEs) to production and growth. This book is the result of over two years research involving a major survey of UK companies by three researchers who are experts in the fields of both the economics of education and the economics of technological change. The results highlight the role of PSEs in the dynamics for technological and organisational change. The results of the survey should prove helpful to academics and policy makers not only in ensuring that appropriate numbers and qualities of PSEs are produced, but that existing individuals are fully utilised.
