KNOWLEDGE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The article interprets the theoretical bases concerning the understanding of the role which knowledge has for the economic development from Schumpeter to the contemporary foreign and Bulgarian authors. It also outlines the characteristics of the various types of knowledge which are important for the economic development. These characteristics are presented in dichotomies, i.e. scientific – everyday, theoretical – empirical, codified – tacit. In addition, the article defines the similarities and differences between information and scientific and technical knowledge. A special emphasis is put on measuring knowledge. The experience in statistical monitoring and measuring, significant for the characterization of the relationship between knowledge and economic development, is systematized and evaluated from a historic perspective. This systematization and a critical approach, combined with the opinions of Bulgarian authors, are the basis for the development of a conceptual framework aiming at the utilization of knowledge for the purposes of social and economic development.