Perspectives on the Theory of the Firm and its Correlation with Technological Change and Innovation

Abstract

Starting from the neoclassical theory, Ronald Coase’s ideas, and the evolutionist theory represented by Joseph Schumpeter, the paper presents the evolution of the notion of the firm from a static and exogenous perspective, to a dynamic, evolutionary and endogenous perspective. The firm is the main innovative agent of the economy, and in the new institutional economics it is conceived as the answer to information problems attached to productive
processes. In the current situation, economic development is based on information; therefore each company should capitalize its human resources qualification, its know-how, and the creation and spreading of innovative technology.