Abstract
This thesis aims to investigate the channels of outward international technology diffusion using the United States as an example. We divide the channels of technology diffusion into “trade-related” and “non-trade related”. Outbound business travel is used as a proxy for non-trade related channel, and outward FDI and trade in intermediate inputs are proxies for trade-related channels. We use triadic patent applications as a measure of innovation. This thesis not only evaluates the relative importance of the channels of technology diffusion but also attempts to discuss the issue of global power ranking. The results suggest that even with rapid development of the Internet, face-to-face communication via outbound business travel is still important for technology diffusion. In addition to technology diffusion, our findings suggest that the absorptive ability of technology-receiving countries is also significant in an era of information explosion.