Asymmetric Learning Spillovers

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Working Paper Number: CES-93-07

Abstract

In this paper, I employ a linear-quadratic model of an industry characterized by learning by doing to examine the implications of asymmetric learning spillovers. Importantly, I show that distribution of spillover benefits can influence market structure in ways that can not be seen in models where spillovers are symmetric. If spillovers are asymmetric, a tradeoff between improved industry performance and increased market concentration can arise which does not occur when they are symmetric. This tradeoff leads to a policy dilemma; whether to promote static or dynamic efficiency in markets where learning is important.

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