The emerging knowledge-based economy

The continuous developments in communications and information technology have forged stronger links between nations, creating networks between nations, companies, and peoples. Paradoxically, this increases opportunities for both cooperation and conflict. Where once nations fought over trade routes and raw materials, the future will see knowledge as the prize. Battles will be about intellectual property and the right to build and market unique products. The authors discuss the advent of the information age and the transition to a knowledge based economy.