The Polycentricity of Innovation: Explaining Variation in the New Role of the States in Science and Technology Policy

Abstract

"There have been important shifts in the locus of activity in science and technology (S&T) policy within the American federal system. Traditionally the states have followed a research agenda set at the national level and acted as the implementation organization for federal funds. Today the states have taken on an increasingly proactive role as active partners in collaborative arrangements, provide independent funding for local research priorities, as well as setting their own agendas even counter to those the federal level. While the most high profile cases include stem cell research, alternative energy and climate change mitigation these are indicators of an increasingly autonomous and independent role of the states in directing S&T policy. This paper examines the types of state-level activities, their distribution and provides evidence to explain the variation. It uses a theoretical framework derived from research on public goods production within polycentric systems of governance to explain the various strategies adopted by the states in this new landscape of S&T policy. The paper concludes with implications for redesigning federal S&T support as well as lessons for state governments."