Prof. Schankerman Mark, Causal Inference Methods with Applications to Topics in Innovation

Prof. Schankerman Mark

Causal Inference Methods with Applications to Topics in Innovation 1011.4557.01

 

Short Description:

In this set of 6 two-hour lectures, we discuss selected techniques for estimating causal relationships with applications to important questions in the economics of patents and innovation. Techniques covered include difference in differences, matching methods, and instrumental variables to estimate local and marginal treatment effects. For each topic, we will typically cover relevant econometric techniques and 1-2 empirical papers.

We will study empirical articles that apply these methods to innovation topics including:

• Modelling and estimating technology and product market spill-overs
• Whether patent rights provide innovation incentives
• Whether patent rights facilitate or block cumulative innovation
• Whether patent rights are important for the market for technology
• Impact of patent rights on the diffusion of knowledge