Global knowledge flows: characteristics, determinants, and impacts

Abstract The access and utilization of global knowledge flows are becoming increasingly relevant for individuals, organizations, and countries in order to foster knowledge creation, innovativeness, productivity, and economic growth. The importance of global knowledge flows is undisputed and substantial research has been conducted to understand the different transmission channels. However, the underlying characteristics, determinants, and impacts of global knowledge flows are only partly comprehended and remain to be explored in more detail. The purpose of this special section is to bring together different perspectives on global knowledge flows in order to provide novel insights and expand our understanding of how to utilize them. After a brief review of the relevant literature, we discuss the six papers in this special section and conclude with overall theory and policy implications and highlight key avenues for further research.